Why New Construction Still Needs Chicago Home Inspectors
When you’re investing in a new home, it’s easy to assume that “new” means “flawless.” But even freshly built properties can have hidden issues that lead to water damage, structural movement, or costly repairs later on. That’s where Chicago home inspectors make all the difference. A professional inspection ensures your new construction is safe, properly graded, and built to last.
In today’s example, our inspection team visited a new construction home in New Lenox, Illinois. The builder had completed most of the exterior work, but a closer look revealed some serious grading and drainage concerns that could allow water to infiltrate the basement.
Inspector’s Note from the Video:
“We’re doing a new construction inspection… the elevation of the grade or the landscaping is high—everything slopes directly back toward the house. They’re going to have to finish and landscape this and provide better drainage. You can see erosion from the water and where the owner is having a water intrusion issue where the water is weeping into the basement… They’ll need to seal those openings with resin or an elastomeric sealer to keep moisture from coming in.”
Improper grading around the foundation and short downspout extensions were the main culprits. When water consistently flows toward the foundation, it can seep through concrete form tie openings, leaving streaks and moisture marks along basement walls. If not corrected, this can lead to structural deterioration and mold growth.
A thorough inspection by Chicago home inspectors identified the issue before the homeowner moved in—saving thousands of dollars in potential foundation repairs. The recommendation: correct the grading, extend the downspouts, and seal foundation openings with an appropriate waterproof material as advised by a qualified foundation contractor.
Even brand-new homes benefit from a detailed inspection. Builders and contractors do their best, but oversights happen. By scheduling a new construction inspection, homeowners gain the assurance that drainage, grading, and waterproofing are done right the first time.
Hiring trusted Chicago home inspectors is one of the smartest moves you can make, whether your home is brand new or a century old. At Real Inspection Services, our team identifies problems early—before they become expensive surprises.
👉 Contact Real Inspection Services today to schedule your new construction or pre-closing inspection and move in with confidence.