09/19/2026
Yes, you still need your own inspection on a brand new house in Georgia. Here’s why, from a buyer inspection in Dallas, GA this week.
A new construction home passes county inspections during the build. A county inspection confirms the work meets code minimums. Code minimum is a floor, not a quality standard, and that inspector is not working for the buyer.
The builder’s walkthrough is separate again. It’s the builder’s punch list, run to the builder’s standard on the builder’s timeline. Normal part of closing. Not an independent opinion on the house.
A third-party inspection is paid for by the buyer and performed by an inspector with no relationship to the builder.
One thing most buyers don’t know: Georgia does not currently require a state license to work as a home inspector. Ask for certification, errors and omissions coverage, and a sample report before you hire.
Do I need an inspection on new construction? Yes. County inspections and the builder walkthrough don’t replace one paid for by the buyer.
Who pays for it in Georgia? The buyer. That’s what makes the inspector independent.
When should it happen? Before closing, and again around month eleven. Most builder warranties run a year, so a re-inspection near month eleven documents issues while they’re still the builder’s responsibility. Terms vary, so read yours.
Does a home inspector need a license in Georgia? Not currently. Certification is voluntary, so vetting the inspector is on the buyer.
Same advice in Paulding County or across West Cobb and Cobb County. Hire your own inspector.
Comment BUILD and we’ll send you the questions to ask before you sign a builder contract.
Kristen Thakur and Lauren McLeroy, Associate Brokers, Realty Network Team, brokered by Real Broker, LLC. Serving West Cobb, Cobb County and the Harrison High School zone.
770-758-7774 | 855-450-0442
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