The Importance of an 11-Month Home Warranty Inspection

Buying a new construction home is exciting. Everything feels fresh, modern, and ready for your family. However, even new homes can have hidden issues. If left unchecked, these problems can become expensive headaches later. That’s why builders often provide a one-year warranty. An 11-month home warranty inspection gives you the chance to identify problems before that coverage runs out.

At Duke’s Home Inspections, we’ve created the Ultimate 11-Month Home Warranty Inspection Checklist to help homeowners protect their investment. Use this guide to understand what should be evaluated, why it matters, and how to ensure you don’t miss your window for repairs.

Why Schedule an 11-Month Home Warranty Inspection?

A new home doesn’t always mean a perfect home. Construction involves dozens of trades, materials, and systems that need to work together seamlessly. Even small oversights can lead to big issues down the road. Here’s why an inspection before the warranty expires is essential:

• Catch hidden defects early: Many issues aren’t visible to the untrained eye but can worsen over time.

• Protect your finances: If problems are documented before the warranty ends, the builder—not you—pays for repairs.

• Peace of mind: A professional inspector ensures nothing is overlooked.

• Leverage for resale: Properly documented inspections prove your home was well cared for if you sell in the future.

  
  

The 11-Month Home Warranty Inspection Checklist

This detailed checklist covers all major systems and components of your home. While homeowners can use it as a reference, a licensed inspector has the training and tools to perform a thorough evaluation.

1. Exterior

• Inspect siding, stucco, or brick for cracks, gaps, or improper installation.

• Check paint, caulking, and sealants for deterioration.

• Examine gutters and downspouts for clogs or poor drainage.

• Look for soil settlement around the foundation that may cause grading problems.

• Test exterior doors and windows for proper sealing, locking, and weatherproofing.

• Assess driveway, sidewalks, and patios for cracking or trip hazards.

  
  

2. Roof System

• Inspect shingles or roofing materials for damage, curling, or missing pieces.

• Confirm proper flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights.

• Evaluate attic ventilation and insulation levels.

• Look for water stains or leaks inside the attic.

• Check gutters, fascia, and soffits for wear and stability.

  
  

3. Foundation and Structural Elements

• Look for cracks in the slab, walls, or ceilings that could indicate movement.

• Inspect framing in accessible areas such as attics or crawlspaces.

• Test doors and windows for sticking, which may suggest foundation shifts.

• Verify that expansion joints are intact and functional.

  
  

4. Plumbing System

• Test water pressure at sinks, showers, and outdoor spigots.

• Look under sinks and around toilets for leaks or moisture damage.

• Flush toilets to check for proper operation.

• Run appliances like dishwashers and washing machines to ensure correct drainage.

• Inspect the water heater for leaks, corrosion, or improper venting.

• Evaluate visible piping in attics or crawlspaces for leaks or insulation gaps.

  
  

5. Electrical System

• Test all outlets and GFCIs for proper grounding and operation.

• Inspect circuit breakers and labeling in the electrical panel.

• Verify that smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are installed and working.

• Check exterior outlets and lighting for weatherproofing.

• Confirm ceiling fans and light fixtures are secure and functional.

  
  

6. HVAC System

• Test heating and cooling in all rooms for even airflow.

• Inspect ductwork for leaks, disconnections, or poor insulation.

• Change or evaluate air filters.

• Check thermostats for calibration and accuracy.

• Verify condensate drain lines are clear and properly routed.

  
  

7. Interior Components

• Examine walls, ceilings, and floors for cracks, nail pops, or settlement signs.

• Open and close doors and windows to ensure smooth operation.

• Test locks, latches, and weatherstripping.

• Inspect cabinetry for alignment, damage, or poor installation.

• Check stair railings and balusters for safety.

• Inspect the fireplace and chimney (if applicable).

  
  

8. Insulation & Ventilation

• Inspect attic insulation for depth and coverage.

• Ensure bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans vent to the exterior, not the attic.

• Verify crawlspaces (if present) are ventilated and free of moisture.

  
  

9. Appliances (if provided by builder)

• Test the oven, stove, dishwasher, refrigerator, and microwave.

• Confirm installation is level, secure, and vented properly.

• Check for leaks or drainage issues with dishwashers and refrigerators.

  
  

10. Safety & Code Compliance

• Confirm stairways, decks, and balconies meet safety codes.

• Verify safety glass is installed in required areas (bathrooms, near doors).

• Test garage door openers for the auto-reverse safety feature.

• Inspect handrails, guardrails, and steps for stability.

  
  

Common Issues Found in 11-Month Inspections

Even in brand-new homes, inspectors often uncover:

• Minor roof leaks or flashing gaps

• Cracks in drywall or foundations from settling

• Plumbing leaks under sinks or in attics

• Improperly wired outlets or mislabeled breaker panels

• HVAC ducts disconnected or leaking

• Poor grading around the home leading to drainage issues

• Windows or doors that stick due to shifting frames

  
  

Addressing these issues under warranty prevents expensive out-of-pocket repairs later.

How to Prepare for Your Inspection

Preparing for your inspection is crucial. Here are some steps to help you get ready:

• Gather your paperwork: Keep copies of your builder warranty and any maintenance records.

• Make a list of concerns: Note any strange noises, leaks, or performance issues.

• Ensure accessibility: Clear access to the attic, crawlspace, electrical panels, and mechanical systems.

• Plan ahead: Schedule your inspection around the 10th or 11th month of ownership to allow time for builder repairs.

  
  

The Value of Hiring a Professional Inspector

While this checklist is comprehensive, some defects require specialized knowledge or tools to identify. A certified inspector uses infrared cameras, moisture meters, and years of expertise to detect issues you can’t see. More importantly, inspectors provide a detailed report you can present to your builder as proof for warranty claims.

At Duke’s Home Inspections, we are licensed by TREC and HUD-approved for 203k consulting. Our expertise ensures your new home gets a full, unbiased evaluation.

Download the Free 11-Month Home Warranty Inspection Checklist (PDF)

To make things easier, we’ve created a printable version of this checklist. Use it to walk through your home or to compare with your inspector’s findings.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

Your new home is a major investment. The 11-month warranty period is your last chance to have the builder correct issues at no cost to you. A professional 11-month home warranty inspection safeguards your finances, protects your property, and ensures your peace of mind.

Don’t let your builder’s warranty expire without a thorough inspection. Schedule your 11-Month Home Warranty Inspection with Duke’s Home Inspections today. Serving Greater Houston, Conroe, Cypress, Katy, and beyond, we provide reliable, detailed, and trusted inspections that give you confidence in your home.

Call us today or book online to secure your inspection before your warranty runs out.