#NewConstruction

I’ve heard of "textured" paint, but this is getting ridiculous. 🎨🐜

The painter at this new build really committed to the "natural look." Why remove the bugs and dirt dauber nests when you can just give them a fresh coat of white and call it 3D wall art? Note to self: If you stand still long enough in this garage, you will become part of the infrastructure. https://youtube.com/shorts/ZpOWinVyKPk?si=uZR6YVgD5Wm2fGIx https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZThfNkyPL/ #HomeInspector #NewConstruction #PaintFail #ConstructionLife #AttentionToDetail

Cid Herlein

Feb 21 min read

One common 'hidden' mistake in new builds... 🚩

I’m at a brand new construction today, and look what’s missing: the return air vent for the downstairs zone. A lot of builders think one giant return at the top of the stairs is "good enough." Spoiler alert: It’s not. Without a dedicated return downstairs, your HVAC system is basically trying to breathe through a straw. The result? Uneven temperatures (Cold spots vs. Hot spots) Stale, stuffy air downstairs Higher energy bills because your unit is working overtime Don

Cid Herlein

Jan 271 min read

You can’t inspect what you can’t power up! ⚡️

Showing up to a new construction inspection today to find the lights off is every inspector’s nightmare. It turns out this isn’t just a fluke—a massive power outage has left 20,000+ neighbors in the dark. https://youtube.com/shorts/KWwn8HBbCK4?si=Fa8CNPnbuy87HWza #HomeInspection #NewConstruction #HomeInspectorLife #NorthwestArkansas #PowerOutage

Cid Herlein

Jan 211 min read

Why "Good Enough" Grading Isn’t Enough. 🏠💧

Why "Good Enough" Grading Isn’t Enough. 🏠💧 In this video, you’re looking at a recipe for an oversaturated foundation. When new construction homes are built this close together, the grading between them is everything. As you can see, the water from the upper house—including all that gutter runoff—is being directed straight toward the foundation of the lower home. Without a proper swale or drainage system to divert that water to the street or a back basin, the lower homeown

Cid Herlein

Jan 21 min read

🏗️ New Construction Doesn’t Mean "Perfect"

You’d think a brand-new home would be move-in ready, but this recent home inspection proved otherwise. While inspecting a bedroom in this new construction build, I found a major issue: completely missing insulation. Without a proper thermal barrier, the owners would have faced: 📈 Sky-high energy bills. ❄️ Freezing winters and boiling summers. 💧 Potential moisture and condensation issues. This is exactly why you need an independent certified home inspector—even if the

Cid Herlein

Dec 17, 20251 min read

🚨 New Construction Mistake Alert! 🚨

I found a significant flaw on a recent new build inspection: the flashing and soffit were completely missed in this section of the roof! 🤦‍♂️ This isn't just cosmetic; it's a huge issue that leaves the home vulnerable: 💧 Water Intrusion: A direct path for rain to leak into the attic, leading to rot, mold, and expensive damage. 🐛 Pest Access: An open invitation for rodents, insects, and other pests to make themselves at home in the attic space. If you’re buying new const

Cid Herlein

Dec 16, 20251 min read

Future roof leak?

Exposed roofing nails are one of the most common spots for a leaky roof! 😬 When a nail head isn't sealed or covered, it creates a direct path for water infiltration, leading to premature decay and costly water damage inside your home. The Fix: Nails should always be driven through the shingle below and then covered by the shingle above. Home Inspector Tip: Never let your roof look like a pin cushion! #HomeInspection #RoofingDefects #LeakyRoof #HomeMaintenance #newco

Cid Herlein

Dec 8, 20251 min read

Safety Alert! 🚨

Found this critical miss during a new construction inspection today right here in Northwest Arkansas. A builder skipped the required GFCI circuit breaker for this install! GFCI (Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection is non-negotiable for safety, especially in wet or outdoor areas. Don't assume everything is up to standard—always get an independent inspection! 👷 Click the video to see exactly where they missed it! #HomeInspection #GFCI #ElectricalSafety #New

Cid Herlein

Dec 5, 20251 min read

GP of the home?

Inspecting a home is never a one-size-fits-all job! From navigating the charm (and quirks!) of historic homes with their aged systems and unique construction, to assessing the latest building standards and complex smart features in a brand new build, a home inspector needs serious versatility. One day you're hunting for knob-and-tube wiring, the next you're checking HVAC efficiency. We adapt to ensure a thorough inspection, no matter the age! #HomeInspection #OldHouseChar

Cid Herlein

Dec 4, 20251 min read

🧐 Playing "Spot the Problem"

It's a tricky game, but someone has to play it! 😉 During a recent new construction inspection, I found a few missing nails and some unsealed exposed fasteners hiding out on the roof. This might seem small, but those tiny gaps are a direct invitation for water to sneak in and cause major headaches down the road! 💧 Think of your home inspector as the second set of eyes that catches the things the busy builder (or roofer!) might overlook. It's all about catching the small mi

Cid Herlein

Nov 5, 20251 min read