Original Approved Plan
New construction has many attractive characteristics, yet we all know that not everyone likes the same thing. Many of the original approved plans include unfinished areas. Some of these areas may be finished or remodeled to suit the taste of the buyer. Some areas require more attention than others and what might seem like a simple, insulation, drywall, carpet, and lights, may really require much more for glazing, ventilation, system access points, and moisture management.
Changes After Inspections
The safe choice is to pay for the additional city/town inspections for the additional changes performed.
I have seen too many new construction projects where the basement is finished as a last minute "upgrade" and simple observations reveal questionable workmanship and habitability. Natural light, glazing, ventilation, and safe egress are not properly achieved in some finished basements. The owner and occupants should be explicitely informed about which rooms of the home are officially considered habitable rooms and which rooms are not, regardless of the finish or decor of the room.
Another common over-sight is the lack of system access points. Plumbing, electrical, and heating components covered by finished materials without any access points. That first clogged drain may be an expensive repair when the finished materials are opened up to find the clean-outs.
Is there a chronic dampness condition that may lead to mold?
New Construction Assumptions
Avoid the assumption that new construction means everything is good. Ask questions if you are not sure a room is suitable for habitability by today's standards. Listen to the answers. Just because there is wall space for a big screen TV does not mean the room is suitable for habitability. There is a big difference between a room used for storage, hobbies or home office and rooms that you may be comfortable enough to fall asleep.
Enjoy your home safely.
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