Building a new home should be an experience you look back on and are glad you went through the process, from the design stage to receiving the keys to your brand new home. To help make sure this happens, it is important to have a plan in place before your closing date about what to expect when it comes to the service you will receive after you move in.

Planning ahead prepares you for the final inspections and gives you a better understanding of what to expect in terms of any deficiencies or minor problems that may need to be done after you move in.

Your final inspection should be done as close to the closing date as possible, however, preferably not on the closing date, as that will be a busy day with so many other things to do and you don’t want to be rushed. During the inspection you will need to prepare a list of anything that is still outstanding. This list should be in writing to avoid any discrepancies between you and the builder, and to determine a time frame for completion.

When choosing your builder, find out what their after-sales-service policy includes before you make your final decision.

A few tips to check are whether or not they provide you with a contact person in case any problems arise after you move in; is there a predetermined number of visits the builder will make to do the remedial work?; what new-home warranty package is offered with your home and what does this warranty include?

During the first year your home will settle and there are a few changes you can expect to happen such as:

• Nail pops or hairline cracks in your drywall as the materials used to build your home continue to dry;
• Small cracks may appear on the basement walls or in the garage floor;
• Occasionally, hardwood floors may have a few squeaks in places as the wood continues to acclimatize to your lifestyle within the new home.

Discuss these with your builder to make sure you are prepared for these so you won’t be surprised if they do occur. Your builder should also provide you with information and manuals on the proper way to use and maintain the various systems and products that are in your new home.

For more information on building your new home visit www.nshomebuilders.ca.