New Construction Home Inspection in Detroit, MI

Why New Construction Still Needs an Independent Inspection

The builder's inspector works for the builder, not for you. Municipal inspectors check code compliance — they don't check workmanship quality, installation details, or the dozens of items that fall outside code but affect performance and durability.

Common new construction defects found by independent inspectors:

• Improper attic ventilation — one of the most common in Michigan new builds. Inadequate soffit/ridge ventilation causes moisture buildup and premature shingle failure
• Missing or incomplete insulation at rim joists, exterior corners, and attic hatches
• HVAC duct leaks — supply and return ducts improperly sealed at joints and transitions
• Grading issues — final lot grading directing water toward the foundation rather than away from it, a near-universal problem on lots that haven't fully settled
• Improper flashing at windows, doors, and roof penetrations
• Electrical defects — outlets missing ground fault protection in required locations, panel labeling errors, connections not fully tightened
• Plumbing rough-in errors that pass framing inspection but affect finished performance
• Incomplete fire blocking in wall and floor assemblies
• Cosmetic defects that affect habitability or warranty claims — sticking doors, improper caulking, cabinet installation errors, HVAC distribution imbalance

New construction defects are far easier and cheaper to address before closing and before drywall conceals access to structural and mechanical systems. An independent inspector gives you documented leverage with the builder's punch-list process.

New Construction in Detroit and Southeast Michigan

Detroit's revitalization has produced significant new residential construction in Midtown, Corktown, East Jefferson, and other neighborhoods — from townhomes and condos to infill single-family construction. These builds are typically performed by smaller contractors and deserve the same scrutiny as any new construction.

Suburban new construction in Novi, Rochester Hills, Macomb Township, and New Baltimore represents the bulk of Southeast Michigan's new build volume. Larger production builders manage tight schedules and labor across multiple projects simultaneously — conditions where defects accumulate.

Michigan's climate imposes specific requirements on new construction: attic ventilation for cold climate performance, proper vapor barriers, ice-and-water shield at eaves and valleys, and thermal envelope performance that doesn't translate to comfort in Michigan winters if not done correctly.

Lot grading is a particular issue in Southeast Michigan's flat topography. Final grades are often corrected during the builder warranty period — but only if you have documented evidence of the problem before closing.