Top 5 Common Issues Found in New Construction Homes in Waxhaw NC

Buying a new construction home in Waxhaw, NC, often feels like a fresh start. The promise of modern design, energy efficiency, and a pristine living space is appealing. Yet, even brand-new homes can come with unexpected problems. Knowing the common issues helps buyers avoid costly surprises and ensures their investment truly feels like home.

Here are the top five issues frequently observed in new construction homes in Waxhaw.

1. Poor Drainage and Grading Problems

One of the most common problems in new homes is improper drainage around the property. Builders sometimes fail to grade the land correctly, causing water to pool near the foundation. This can lead to:

• Basement or crawl space flooding

• Foundation damage over time

• Mold and mildew growth inside the home

  
  

For example, a homeowner in Waxhaw noticed water collecting near their garage after heavy rain. The builder had not sloped the yard away from the house, which caused water to seep into the foundation walls. Fixing this required regrading the yard and installing drainage solutions, which can be expensive.

When inspecting a new home, check the slope of the yard. The ground should slope away from the foundation at least 6 inches over the first 10 feet. Ask the builder about drainage plans and watch for signs of standing water after storms.

2. HVAC System Issues

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems in new homes sometimes have installation or design flaws. Common HVAC problems include:

• Improperly sized units that struggle to heat or cool the home

• Poor ductwork installation causing uneven airflow or leaks

• Thermostat placement that leads to inaccurate temperature readings

  
  

A Waxhaw resident shared that their new home’s HVAC system ran constantly but never reached the set temperature. An inspection revealed the unit was too small for the home’s square footage, and ducts were poorly sealed. The solution involved upgrading the system and sealing ducts, which added unexpected costs.

Before closing on a new home, request a thorough HVAC inspection. Confirm the unit size matches the home’s needs and that ductwork is professionally installed and sealed.

3. Electrical Wiring and Outlet Placement

Electrical issues in new construction homes can range from minor inconveniences to serious safety hazards. Some common problems include:

• Outlets placed in inconvenient or impractical locations

• Insufficient number of outlets in key rooms

• Loose or improperly connected wiring

• Missing or incorrectly installed GFCI outlets in kitchens and bathrooms

  
  

For instance, a Waxhaw homeowner found that many outlets were located behind large furniture spaces, making them hard to access. Additionally, the kitchen lacked enough outlets for modern appliances, forcing the use of extension cords.

When touring a new home, test all outlets and consider your furniture layout. Ask the builder about electrical plans and ensure GFCI outlets are installed where required by code.

4. Cabinet and Trim Work Defects

New homes often feature custom cabinetry and trim work that should enhance the home’s look. Unfortunately, rushed or careless workmanship can cause:

• Cabinets that don’t align properly or have gaps

• Doors and drawers that stick or don’t close fully

• Trim pieces with visible nail holes, gaps, or uneven paint

  
  

A Waxhaw buyer reported that their kitchen cabinets had uneven gaps and some doors scraped against the frame. The trim around windows and doors showed gaps and poor paint coverage, detracting from the home’s finish.

Inspect cabinetry and trim carefully during walkthroughs. Open and close all doors and drawers. Look closely at seams and painted surfaces. Request repairs or touch-ups before finalizing the purchase.

5. Flooring Installation Problems

Flooring is a major feature in any home, and new construction homes sometimes have flooring issues such as:

• Uneven or squeaky floors

• Gaps between floorboards or tiles

• Poorly finished edges or transitions

• Damage from improper handling during construction

  
  

A Waxhaw homeowner noticed squeaks and uneven spots in their hardwood floors shortly after moving in. The installer had not properly secured the boards, leading to movement and noise.

During your final walkthrough, walk through every room to check for uneven floors or squeaks. Look for gaps or damage in tile grout or hardwood seams. Address any concerns with the builder promptly.

New construction homes in Waxhaw offer many benefits but also come with potential pitfalls. Being aware of these common issues helps buyers make informed decisions and advocate for quality work.