Three Questions Every Homeowner Should Ask Before Their One-Year Warranty Expires
With housing shortages driving new construction across Mobile and Baldwin County, more families than ever are moving into brand-new homes. That first year of coverage from your builder is valuable — but it doesn’t last forever. Before your one-year warranty runs out, ask yourself these three important questions:
Three Questions to Ask Before Your One-Year Warranty Runs Out
1. What documentation do I have going forward? If you haven’t already received them, request your closeout package: appliance manuals, product registrations, warranty cards, roofing/HVAC details, and any extended manufacturer warranties. Keep these organized in a binder or digital file. Knowing what’s covered — and for how long — can save you a headache later.
2. What maintenance is required to keep my warranty valid? Most warranties require proper care to remain in effect. Ask your builder for a recommended maintenance schedule: changing HVAC filters, re-caulking, cleaning gutters, inspecting roofs, or painting/staining exterior materials. Missing these steps could void your coverage.
3. Who do I call if issues come up? During the one-year warranty, concerns should be reported directly to your builder — and handled through the warranty process or communication channels they specify. Some builders structure checkpoints at 3, 6, or 11 months, while others may vary.
Before the warranty period expires, it’s a good idea to request a list of subcontractors and vendors (HVAC, plumbing, electrical, roofing, cabinetry, etc.). You may not need this list during your warranty coverage, but it can be very helpful afterward if you require additional service or repairs. Many trades are willing to return for work once the builder’s formal obligations end.
Why Timing Matters for One-Year Warranty Cosmetic Issues
Depending on your builder’s warranty policy and performance guidelines, cosmetic deficiencies (like nail pops, drywall cracks, or caulk shrinkage) may only be repaired once. For this reason, it’s often wise to let your home pass through a full seasonal cycle before submitting cosmetic requests. Heat, humidity, and settling will reveal most of the cosmetic issues in your first year. Instead of requesting multiple small fixes, consider flagging issues with blue tape, photos, or notes, and then submit one thorough request near the end of the year.
If your builder has not clearly referenced a set of performance standards in their warranty documents, the NAHB Residential Construction Performance Guidelines can serve as a helpful resource for what is considered acceptable practice, versus a warrantable defect.
Beyond One-Year Warranty Basics
Some homeowners also choose to go further by having warranty documents reviewed, drafting warranty request letters, or creating a custom maintenance calendar. These are optional services, not required for everyone.
How We Can Help
At Gulf Star Inspection Services, our 11-Month Warranty Inspection is a thorough, independent inspection designed to identify deficiencies before your coverage expires. This service is available whether or not we performed your original home inspection.
Additional services are available upon request, such as warranty document review, subcontractor/vendor list requests, or creating a custom maintenance plan. These are billed separately and tailored to your needs.
Contact us today to schedule your 11-month inspection — and let Gulf Star Inspection Services help you protect your new home and your warranty coverage.