PHASE INSPECTIONS
Deficiencies found in workmanship and/or materials are a frequent event during the building process of a home. Many deficiencies are identified by the construction manager, city or county inspector. Most of the deficient items are repaired however many more deficient items will not be identified or repaired. All deficient items that are not identified or repaired before the next stage of construction begin, they are covered (example: plumbing pipes, footings, structural rebar/post tension cables, depth of foundation, etc. will not be viewable after the concrete is poured). The unresolved hidden deficiencies could present itself/become evident weeks, months, years later when repairs are required to resolve the situation.
The phase process is broken down into three categories:
FOUNDATION
The inspection begins when the dirt work begins for the foundation of the home. At this time, plumbing will be installed/routed in and under the foundation. This is also the perfect opportunity to ensure the foundation is at the proper depth, all the proper structural steel (rebar and post tension cables) are properly installed, look for deficiencies in the vapor barrier, inspection of all other components before they pour the concrete (typically 2 or more inspections occur during this phase).
FRAMING
This is the time to view all the internal items in the home that are visible at this time however will be later covered with drywall (plumbing / electrical as they pass through wall studs and top plates, vapor barrier, fire blocking, deficient or improperly installed studs, and rafters, deficient or missing rafter hangers, determine if the home is properly anchored or constructed for high winds/storms, insulation, etc.). (typically 4 or more inspections occur during this phase).
FINAL
This usually takes place once the home building process has been completed; typically done before the punch list walk through with your builder. A complete “ground to roof” home inspection will take place at this time which will also include the operation and inspection of the following: electrical system and fixtures, plumbing and plumbing fixtures, all the installed appliances, all doors, all windows, etc.