Do You Need a Home Inspection for New Construction in Michigan?

Many homebuyers assume that because a house is brand new, it doesn't need a home inspection.

In my view, that's a mistake.

A newly constructed home may have never been lived in, but that doesn't necessarily mean every component was installed correctly or that every issue was identified before closing.

Home inspectors routinely discover issues in newly built homes involving roofing, grading, drainage, windows, doors, HVAC systems, plumbing, electrical work, insulation, appliances, and other construction components. Some of these issues might be minor, while others can be more significant.

A professional home inspection gives you the benefit of having an independent professional evaluate the property before you complete one of the largest financial transactions of your life.

Just as importantly, many buyers focus on the inspection itself while overlooking something equally important: the builder's purchase agreement.

Builder contracts often differ from standard residential purchase agreements. They may contain unique provisions regarding inspection rights, punch-list items, warranties, construction delays, change orders, default remedies, dispute resolution, and the builder's obligations after closing.

Understanding those provisions before signing the contract can be just as important as understanding the physical condition of the home.

In my practice, I've reviewed purchase agreements for both resale homes and new construction. One thing I've learned is that buyers generally have the greatest opportunity to understand their rights and address potential legal concerns before they become contractually bound, not after.

If you're purchasing a newly constructed home in Michigan, consider taking two important steps before closing:

• Have the home inspected by a qualified, independent home inspector.

  
  

• Have the builder's purchase agreement reviewed by a Michigan real estate attorney so you understand your legal rights and obligations before signing.

A new home is one of the largest investments most people will ever make. Taking the time to understand both the condition of the property and the legal terms of your contract can help you make a more informed decision and avoid problems that may be much more difficult to resolve later.

If you're buying a newly constructed home in Michigan and would like an attorney to review your purchase agreement before you sign, Dawisha Law assists buyers in reviewing builder contracts, explaining legal risks, and helping clients understand exactly what they are agreeing to before moving forward.

Know what you're signing before you sign it.

DeLone Dawisha

Principal and Founder

Dawisha Law, PLLC

248-904-5123

ddawisha@dawishalaw.com