How to check the quality of a new construction before buying

A small well-decorated living room

Buying a new property may seem like a risk-free option, but it's crucial not to rely solely on appearances.

Even recent constructions can hide flaws that will affect your comfort or lead to unexpected long-term costs.

In this article, discover how to check the quality of a new construction before signing for your future home.

Follow our advice to assess the finishes, the structure, and the available guarantees, and make your purchase a success without any nasty surprises.

Carefully inspect the finishes

The finishes of a new property offer a first impression of the quality of work delivered. It's important to check every detail to spot any defects.

Check the wall coverings and paint

• Make sure walls and ceilings are smooth, with no cracks or mold marks.
• Examine the paintwork: it should be uniform with no drip marks.

Touch the surfaces to check if the finishes are neat or seem sloppy.

Inspect floors and tiling

• Check that tiles are properly laid, with no irregular joints or cracked tiles.
• Test the stability of the floor: it shouldn't move or make hollow sounds when you walk on it.

Small tile or parquet defects can be signs of hurried work.

Evaluate the quality of technical installations

A new property must meet modern standards for electricity, plumbing, and insulation. These elements are vital for your comfort and to avoid expensive repairs.

Check the electrical installation

• Open the electrical panel to make sure it is tidy and compliant with standards (presence of a differential circuit breaker).
• Test all outlets and switches to ensure they work properly.

In a new apartment, outlets should be well positioned in each room for practical use.

Examine the plumbing

• Test the taps and showers to check the water pressure.
• Check there are no leaks under sinks or washbasins.
• Check the drainage in sinks, showers, and toilets: water should drain quickly and without backflow.

Assess thermal and acoustic insulation

• Close the windows and listen to outside noise: good acoustic insulation should reduce it.
• Touch the windows and exterior walls to check if they retain heat or cool effectively.

Request certifications for the materials used (double glazing, thermal insulation, etc.).

Analyze the structure and communal areas

Even in a new construction, some structural issues may arise. These are often expensive to fix and can affect the property's value.

Inspect exterior walls and the facade

• Check there are no visible cracks or imperfections on the facade.
• Ensure the materials used are of good quality (brick, concrete, render).

Examine the shared spaces

• If you are buying in a building, inspect the stairs, hallways, and elevators to ensure they are well finished and functional.
• Check access to the parking and green spaces to assess their quality and upkeep.

A poorly designed parking ramp or neglected green space may indicate a lack of attention to detail.

Check guarantees and certifications

New properties must be covered by several legal guarantees that protect buyers in case of defects or poor workmanship.

Make sure legal guarantees are in place

• Ten-year guarantee: Covers structural defects affecting the building's solidity for 10 years after delivery.
• Two-year guarantee: Protects detachable elements of the building (taps, shutters, etc.) for 2 years.
• Completion guarantee: Requires the developer to fix any faults reported during the first year after delivery.

Request the developer’s certifications

• Ask about the labels or certifications obtained by the project (HQE, BBC, etc.), which guarantee construction in line with environmental and energy standards.

Read the sales contract carefully and seek a notary’s opinion to clarify the terms related to guarantees.

Call a professional for an inspection

Even with a careful eye, some problems can go unnoticed if you’re not a construction expert. Hiring a professional for a detailed inspection can be a valuable investment.

Why hire a building expert?

• An expert can spot issues invisible to the naked eye, such as insulation flaws or structural problems.
• They will give you a detailed report that can be used as a basis for requesting corrections from the developer.

An expert can assess the quality of materials used and verify they match the standards announced by the developer.

Don't rush: Follow up after delivery

Once construction is complete and the property is handed over, take time to report any defects within the completion guarantee period.

Make a list of points to be fixed

• Note all encountered issues (creaky doors, peeling paint, etc.) and notify the developer.
• Request a written, precise follow-up of the repairs made.

Take photos of the defects to build a strong case in the event of a dispute.

A successful purchase thanks to thorough checks

Buying a newly built property is an opportunity to enjoy a modern home with no major worries.

However, to avoid unpleasant surprises, it's essential to carefully check every detail before committing.

By following these steps and surrounding yourself with competent professionals, you’ll make an informed choice and fully enjoy your new investment.

Need help finding your ideal new construction? Discover the best opportunities on Housing Place and secure your purchase with confidence!