Why Every New Homeowner in Florida Should Schedule an 11-Month Warranty Inspection

Helping Florida homeowners protect their investment and one of the most valuable services we offer to new construction buyers is the 11-Month Warranty Inspection. If you've recently purchased a newly built home, you likely received a builder’s one-year warranty. As you approach the 11-month mark after closing, now is the time to take a closer look at your property—before that warranty expires. This inspection isn’t just about catching cosmetic issues. It's a last chance to identify construction-related problems while the builder is still contractually obligated to fix them. Our goal is to give you the full picture so you can hold the builder accountable and have some peace of mind .


What Is an 11-Month Warranty Inspection?

Also known as a Builder’s Warranty Inspection, this evaluation takes place about 10 ½ to 11 months after your closing date. By this time, your home has gone through a full cycle of Florida’s seasons—sun, rain, humidity, storms—and underlying issues that weren’t apparent at move-in may now be visible. The  inspection should cover every major system and structural component of your home, including:


  • Roof and attic

  • Foundation and grading

  • HVAC system

  • Electrical and plumbing systems

  • Windows and doors

  • Appliances

  • Interior and exterior finishes

Your inspector should  provide you with a comprehensive report, complete with photos and descriptions, which you can share with your builder to request repairs before your warranty expires.


What Homeowners Should Look for Before the Inspector Arrives

While our inspectors are trained to uncover hidden issues, you, as the homeowner, can provide valuable insights based on your daily experience in the home. Before your inspection, take note of:


1. Drafty areas or temperature inconsistencies

    These could indicate insulation or HVAC ductwork issues.


2. Leaks or moisture buildup

    Check under sinks, around windows, and in the attic for dampness

or musty smells.


3. Cracks in drywall or foundation

    Minor cracks may be expected as a house settles, but larger or

growing cracks can signal structural concerns.


4. Sticky doors or windows

    Improper framing or foundation movement may be to blame.


5. Uneven flooring or popping tiles

    This could indicate issues with the subfloor or settling.


6. Water pooling near the foundation

    Improper drainage or grading problems can cause long-term

damage.


By making note of these concerns in advance, you help ensure your inspection covers the areas most important to you.


Common Problems Found During 11-Month Inspections

Over the years, we’ve helped hundreds of Florida homeowners discover issues just in time to file warranty claims. Here are a few real-world examples:


  • A leaking roof vent that had begun staining the ceiling—missed during the initial walkthrough by the client and builder.

  • Improperly sealed windows allowing water intrusion during summer storms.

  • Insufficient attic insulation, causing rooms to heat unevenly and spike energy bills.

  • Grading issues leading to water pooling near the slab foundation.

  • Cracked tiles in a primary shower, revealing movement in the backing board behind them.

  • Loose deck railings and incomplete exterior caulking.


Each of these defects was repairable by the builder at no cost to the homeowner—but only because they were caught and documented before the warranty expired.


Other Inspections That May Be Of Benefit To New Construction Homeowners

In addition to the full 11-month inspection, look to see if your inspection company offers specialized services to help homeowners protect their investment long term:


Thermal Imaging Inspection:

Detects hidden moisture, insulation voids, and electrical hot spots that may not be visible to the naked eye.


Roof & Attic Moisture Assessment

Especially helpful after our rainy season, this checks for leaks and proper ventilation.


Electrical System Review

Verifying that circuits are wired correctly and identify any loose or improperly installed outlets or breakers.


Slab & Foundation Evaluation

This specialized check looks for early signs of shifting, settling, or cracks that could impact your home's structural integrity.


Bottom Line

You invested in a newly built home for peace of mind, but even new construction isn’t immune to defects. An 11-month warranty inspection is your final opportunity to address construction issues while they’re still the builder’s responsibility—not yours. It is a very good idea to make sure you, as the homeowner, enter your second year of homeownership with clarity, confidence, and a full understanding of your home’s condition. Try not to let your warranty expire without completing this inspection. It can save you thousands.


We’re Here To Help

Feel free to call us if you have questions at 407-319-4608. You may also schedule your inspection or find additional information on our website.


*Image from Shutterstock