Recommendation for New Home Inspector (Irvine, Orange: flat fee, buying, new construction)

[ktseng]

Can anyone recommend any reliable new home inspector around Orange County? We are thinking of doing the Phase Inspection where they inspect the house when the foundation is pour, before the dry wall is up, and a final walk-through when the house is closed. Thank you!

[POLAINTERNATIONAL]

A lot. Are you a home owner or renter? Did you buy/rent house with the consult of some contractors? If you elaborate in detail then you will find more helpful replies.

[ktseng]

Thanks for the quick response! We are buying a new construction home in Irvine. The house is not yet built and will probably break ground within 3 weeks.

[QIS]

What you are referring to is also called an in-progess inspection. This is a specialized type of inspection you should not relegate to just any property inspector.They should be able to provide you with examples of in-progress/phase inspections they have done in the past. DO NOT simply hire the el cheapo check list inspector for this. In progress inspections can be somewhat ala-carte in that the inspector will come out when you want them to and inspect specific items completed as per your instructions and their own observations. Also, you should also anticipate a qualified inspector to require you to sign a consultation type inspection contract rather than the contract used for transaction related inspections which would have some non applicable content. You should prepare to pay them an hourly or flat fee for each trip that would include reasonable expenses.
Bear in mind, new means NEW! This is as close to perfect as many homes ever get. Make sure that you insist on excellence from start to finish (yes, that means fit and finish!). Think of the least expensive brand new automobile: what type of imperfection is acceptable even for that car?
To answer your question, I don't know of anyone in OC. I'm not sure most general property inspectors will be able to validate all of the possible code provisions that might be considered for each in-progress inspection. If you are looking for someone to read the blueprints and be able to assess all of the code compliance, it might be to locate an inspector with that capability. Make sure you understand what they can/will and cannot/will not do relative to what you wish them to do. Do you want them to communicate with the builder on your behalf or with you for instance?
Please take your time, do good research, ask good questions, and document wisely when interviewing.