by MacDaddy » Mon Dec 03, 2012 3:11 pm
It will probably be much like the Eagle Ridge problems and choosing a builder won't make much of a difference because they all seem to use the same contractors. The other problem is that most don't check on the quality of work being done, they usually just book in people to do the work. Some of the consistently sloppy work that happens have already been mentioned.
Insulation, I have seen some homes where it was just never done, more often it is missing around windows and doors after they are installed.
Drywall, I agree on the using the wrong type in wet areas.
Paint and plaster, not using a primer/sealer on fresh drywall. Usually it is a quick spray job to look good for the possession inspection. Ceiling texture plaster is often lacking enough latex binder so you end up with a constant white dust all over your house. Give it a quick rub with your finger, it shouldn't come back all white and powdery.
HVAC, the sheet metal guys hate taping the duct work and will fight tooth and nail against doing it. Natural gas, the lines are often undersized for the run of pipe or appliance it is connected to. This will result in an underperforming water heater, furnace or more often bbq or gas range.
Eavestroughing and downspouts, these guys are terrible. Problems include not sloping the eaves downwards to the spout. This ends up with large amounts of water sitting stagnate in the eavestrough. Also watch for downspout placement, they really don't care. Drive around Eagle Ridge and try counting the number of homes with downspouts that run across the pathway to the front door. You will either trip your guests if the downspout extension is down as required or kill them when they slip and fall on the ice sheet that forms every spring and fall on your sidewalk. They also seem to love having them come down directly over window wells. The Wood Buffalo Housing townhouses are a nice example of that.
Finally, take a look at the area on one of the older aerial photos with the new roads superimposed. If your lot was once a pond make sure you have a good sump pump and consider an emergency backup unit.
Even though most builders forbid you touring the property until it is finished I would recommend walking through every couple of days and taking lots of photos or video. If you are not construction savvy at least have your home inspector look at these as part of the survey. It is the only way to catch all those really important items that are hidden behind the drywall and single coat of paint.