The Do’s & Don’ts of Newly Built Houses: A Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners

Buying a house is an exciting milestone in anyone’s life as it offers the opportunity to have a fresh start. And what’s better than buying a newly built house with modern appliances, smelling fresh paint, and built according to the latest safety regulations?  

However, along with the joy of the prospect of buying a new house and the joy of owning one comes the responsibility of understanding how to properly maintain and care for it. In this blog post, we will explore the do’s and don’ts of newly built houses, helping you navigate through the buying process and make the most of your investment while avoiding common pitfalls.

Do: Take your time choosing a housebuilder

When you’re ready to buy a new house, make thorough research comparing housebuilders in the area to understand what to expect when working with them. If you love a house, don’t blindly choose a builder only to find out down the road that they have complaints against them or are hard to work with. 

By taking the time to delve into the backgrounds of different builders, you can gain valuable insights into their reputation, track record, and overall performance. It is essential to understand what to expect when working with a builder to ensure a smooth and satisfactory experience throughout the construction process.

Don’t: Expect your house to look like the model

When visiting a model home, it’s essential to resist the temptation of being swayed solely by the aesthetic appeal of the staged interiors of impressive features. While those elements can be visually captivating, it’s crucial to remember that the actual house you purchase may not mirror the exact same design or have the same level of luxury.

Instead, when exploring a model home, shift your attention to the floor plan and its suitability for your specific needs. Examine the layout, paying close attention to aspects like room sizes, closet space, and overall functionality. 

Consider whether the layout accommodates your family’s requirements and lifestyle. Will there be enough bedrooms for everyone? Are the closets spacious enough to accommodate your storage needs? These are the aspects that will truly impact your day-to-day living.

Do: Conduct a thorough inspection

Before closing the deal on a newly built house, it is essential to inspect the property carefully. Hire a professional home inspector to examine the construction quality, electrical and plumbing systems, HVAC, and other essential components. 

A professional home inspection before closing the deal on a newly constructed house is essential. It helps uncover any potential issues, ensures the property meets quality and safety standards, and provides an opportunity for the builder to address concerns before the purchase is finalised.

Don’t: Overlook the importance of warranties

Newly built houses often come with warranties from the builder or manufacturer. Understand the terms and conditions of these warranties, including their duration and coverage. Keep documentation of the warranties in a safe place for easy access in case any repairs or replacements are needed.

Finally, make sure to familiarise yourself with the procedures outlined in the warranties for making claims or requesting repairs. Some warranties may require specific steps to be followed or certain notifications to be made within a designated timeframe. Adhering to these procedures will ensure that you can take full advantage of the warranty coverage when needed.

Do: Familiarise yourself with the mechanical systems

It is important to invest some effort in getting to know the mechanical systems in your new home. Take the time to learn about the various components, such as the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, electrical panels, and water heaters. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of how these systems operate, you’ll be better equipped to use them efficiently and troubleshoot any potential issues.

Moreover, it is essential to familiarise yourself with basic maintenance tasks that can help keep these systems in good condition. For example, regularly changing filters in your HVAC system can ensure proper airflow and prevent dust and debris buildup. This simple act of maintenance can significantly extend the lifespan of your HVAC unit and save you from expensive repairs down the line.

By taking the initiative to familiarise yourself with the mechanical systems and learning how to operate them effectively, you’ll not only enhance your comfort but also contribute to the long-term durability and efficiency of your home.

Don’t: Delay necessary maintenance

To keep your newly built house in top shape, prioritise regular maintenance tasks. Schedule periodic inspections of the roof, gutters, and exterior paint. Check for signs of leaks, mould, or pest infestations. 

Remember, even seemingly minor issues should not be ignored, as they can worsen over time. By staying proactive and addressing maintenance tasks promptly, you can preserve the value and integrity of your newly built house, ensuring it remains a comfortable and secure living space for years to come.

Do: Optimise for energy efficiency

To make the most of the energy-efficient features in your newly constructed home, it’s important to optimise energy efficiency. Take advantage of the various energy-saving elements that are typically incorporated into new homes, such as insulation, high-efficiency appliances, and LED lighting.

Start by familiarising yourself with these features and understanding how to use them effectively. For instance, programmable thermostats allow you to set temperature schedules based on your needs, optimising energy usage throughout the day. Take the time to learn how to adjust thermostat settings to maximise energy efficiency without compromising comfort.

Consider exploring renewable energy options to further reduce your energy consumption and save on utility bills. Installing solar panels is a popular choice for many homeowners, as they harness the power of the sun to generate electricity. While the upfront investment may be significant, solar panels can provide long-term cost savings and reduce your reliance on traditional energy sources.

By optimising energy efficiency in your newly constructed home, you can not only contribute to a greener environment but also enjoy financial benefits through lower utility bills. Take the time to educate yourself on the energy-saving features of your home and make conscious choices to reduce energy consumption. Your efforts will not only be environmentally responsible but also help you create a more comfortable and cost-effective living space.

Don’t: Ignore landscaping and drainage

Proper landscaping and drainage are essential components in safeguarding the structural integrity of a new home. It is imperative to ensure that the grading around the property slopes away from the foundation to prevent water accumulation and potential damage. By directing water away from the foundation, you can minimise the risk of water seepage, moisture buildup, and subsequent problems such as mould growth, foundation cracks, or compromised structural stability.

Additionally, maintaining the landscaping regularly is vital for preserving the exterior of the house. To mitigate these risks, it is crucial to engage in routine landscaping maintenance. Regularly pruning trees and shrubs helps manage their growth, prevents overreach, and eliminates dead or weak branches. This not only ensures the health and aesthetic appeal of the landscape but also minimises potential risks to the house’s exterior.

By proactively managing grading, drainage, and landscaping maintenance, homeowners can significantly contribute to the long-term structural integrity and overall well-being of their new home. These practices help safeguard against water-related issues, mitigate the potential damage caused by overgrown vegetation, and maintain the curb appeal and functionality of the property.

Do: Keep a record of changes and upgrades

Keeping a detailed record of changes and upgrades made to your home is essential for several reasons. First, it serves as proof of the improvements you have made, which is particularly important when selling the property. Prospective buyers will be able to see the added value and features you have invested in, allowing you to justify a higher asking price and attract more interested parties.

Additionally, having documentation of modifications and upgrades can be valuable for resolving any future issues. If problems arise with specific fixtures, systems, or renovations, the recorded information, including permits, receipts, and warranties, will help you identify and address these issues more efficiently.

Furthermore, these records can come in handy when it comes to insurance claims. If you need to file a claim for damages or loss, providing evidence of the upgrades you made and the associated costs can help you receive appropriate compensation.

Overall, maintaining a comprehensive record of changes and upgrades not only safeguards your investment but also provides peace of mind. It ensures that you have the necessary documentation to support your decisions, protect your property’s value, and address any potential concerns that may arise in the future.

Don’t: Neglect home insurance

Neglecting home insurance is a common mistake that homeowners should avoid, even when purchasing a newly built home. Although your new home may come with a warranty that covers certain aspects, it is crucial to secure comprehensive home insurance to protect yourself financially in various scenarios.

Homeowner’s insurance provides a safety net against unexpected events that could cause significant financial loss. It typically covers damages resulting from natural disasters like fires, storms, or earthquakes. In the unfortunate event of a burglary or theft, home insurance can help replace stolen items and repair any damage caused. Additionally, it can provide liability coverage in case someone gets injured on your property and files a lawsuit.

To ensure you have the appropriate coverage, it is recommended to consult with an insurance professional. They can assess your specific needs and help you choose a policy that suits your circumstances. Factors such as location, property value, and personal belongings should be taken into account when determining the level of coverage required.

When selecting a policy, be sure to review the terms and conditions carefully. Understand what is covered and what is excluded, as well as any deductibles or limits that apply. It’s also advisable to periodically review and update your policy as needed, especially when making significant changes to your property or acquiring new valuable assets.

Wrapping up

Owning a newly built house brings immense joy, but it also requires responsible homeownership. By following the do’s and don’ts outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your new home remains in excellent condition for years to come. Take proactive measures, prioritise regular maintenance, and stay informed about your property to fully enjoy the benefits of your investment.

Think Muir Homes could be the housing brand for you? Being one of Scotland’s foremost established housing brands, we have an unrivalled reputation for quality and commitment to listening to what our clients demand. If you’re interested in seeing our new build houses in Scotland, contact us, and we will be delighted to assist you.