What is a pre-drywall inspection?

A pre-drywall inspection is a comprehensive evaluation of a new construction home's structural framing, electrical wiring, plumbing, HVAC systems, air sealing, fire blocking, and weather-resistive barrier performed after rough-in work is complete but before drywall installation begins. This is your only opportunity to visually inspect and document these critical systems before they are permanently concealed behind wall and ceiling coverings. The inspection helps to verify compliance with the engineer's design drawings, the 2024 International Residential Code (IRC), 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC), and manufacturer installation requirements.

When should I schedule a pre-drywall inspection?

Schedule your pre-drywall inspection after all rough-in work is complete—including framing, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and insulation—but before insulation and siding/masonry installation begins. Most builders provide 3-7 days notice before installing insulation. Contact your builder to request notification when rough-ins pass municipal inspection, then schedule your third-party inspection immediately. Prompt scheduling is essential as availability cannot be guaranteed.

How much does a pre-drywall inspection cost in Austin?

Most inspectors offer a visual assessment only and charge between $350 to $600. A Constructiva pre-drywall inspection is much more in-depth and costs range from about $800 to $1,200 depending on home size. Larger homes over 6,000 square feet cost more. This investment is minimal compared to the cost of opening finished walls to repair concealed defects—which can run $5,000 to $20,000 or more.

What's the difference between a municipal inspection and a third-party pre-drywall inspection?

Municipal inspections verify minimum code compliance and are performed by city inspectors with limited time per house—often 5-20 minutes. Third-party pre-drywall inspections are comprehensive evaluations lasting 2-4 hours, performed by an inspector working exclusively for you. Third-party inspections go beyond minimum code to evaluate installation quality, manufacturer specifications, plans (if available) and industry best practices. They also include detailed photo documentation and written reports you can use for builder negotiations. Municipal inspections provide no documentation to homeowners.

What's the difference between you and the builder's third-party pre-drywall inspection?

The builder's third-party inspector is hired by the builder to verify minimum code compliance for their building permit. Their report goes to the builder and maybe the municipality, but not to you. As your independent new construction inspector, I work exclusively for you with loyalty to the buyer, not the builder or their schedule. I inspect beyond minimum code identifying workmanship issues, potential defects, and items that meet code but may cause future problems. You receive the full report with complete documentation and photos for future use. I advocate for your interests if conflicts arise, with no conflicts of interest since I'm not approved, referred, or influenced by the builder.

Will the builder fix issues found in my pre-drywall inspection?

Reputable builders are usually pretty good at correcting code violations and installation deficiencies identified in pre-drywall inspections. A professional inspection report with specific code references and photo documentation makes this straightforward so that builders can direct their subcontractors to exact locations and understand exactly what needs correction. Some builders initially resist third-party inspections but most come to appreciate the quality control. If a builder refuses reasonable corrections, the documented report provides leverage and, if necessary, evidence for warranty claims or legal action.

Is a pre-drywall inspection worth it?

Pre-drywall inspection is one of the highest-value investments in new construction. For $800-$1,200, you get documentation of systems that will be hidden for the life of your home. Repairs at this stage cost the builder minutes to hours of labor. The same repairs after drywall require cutting open walls, making repairs, then patching, texturing, and repainting—often $5,000-$20,000+ depending on scope. Pre-drywall inspection also establishes documentation if problems emerge later, protecting your warranty rights and providing evidence if disputes arise.

What codes apply to new construction in Texas?

New construction in Texas follows the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC) for electrical installations but the structural, plumbing, and mechanical systems follow the International Residential Code (IRC) whose adopted version will vary depending on the municipality. For example, Austin has adopted the 2024 IRC, however many surrounding towns are on the 2021. Texas also requires compliance with the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) for insulation and energy efficiency. Local jurisdictions may adopt amendments.

Do you offer bilingual inspection services?

Yes. Constructiva Realty Inspections provides verbal bilingual services in English and Spanish. This includes on-site inspection communication, phone consultations, and builder discussions, however the report will be in English for legal reasons.

More Than An Inspector.

TREC LICENSED

CODE CERTIFIED

TDA LICENSED

DETAIL ORIENTED

EXPERIENCED

KNOWLEDGEABLE

HISPANOHABLANTE

To perform new construction code inspections you need more than a home inspector.

Casey Callais brings decades of hands-on construction experience to every inspection, beginning with years of residential renovation work in Beaumont, Texas under his father's mentorship. His expertise supported him through university and led to international construction projects, including managing school and library construction in Nicaragua through a non-profit organization.

Casey maintains current knowledge of building codes through ongoing study and continuing education, ensuring clients receive thorough, accurate inspections backed by both practical experience and regulatory expertise. His international experience combined with his Texas roots provides a unique perspective on diverse construction systems and practices.

Casey founded Constructiva Realty Inspections to provide inspection services tailored to each client's specific needs. His comprehensive understanding of residential construction enables him to identify potential issues and provide clients with the documentation they and their builders need to help ensure A+ construction.

AN ADVOCATE.

Inspecting the HVAC in the attic

TREC #23456
ICC #9663183
-Residential Combo Inspector
(Building, Mechanical,
Plumbing, Electrical)
-Residential Plans Examiner
-Residential Energy Inspector
PTI Slab-on-Ground #02111877
EDI Level 2 #TX-226
IICRC BMI #70263265
TDA CApplicator #0880297

Certified by the Exterior Design Institute

PRE-POUR INSPECTION

PTI IRC

Documentation for new construction you and the engineer can count on.

Report includes references to the PTI standards and the 2024 IRC code, measure for level and square, photo documentation of the reinforcement, beams, and plumbing, check against the plans (if available), and advice on communicating with the builder.

PLANS

LEVEL

SQUARE

DOCUMENTATION

STANDARDS

More Information

IRC NEC

PRE-DRYWALL INSPECTION

Code inspection report designed not just to document but to educate.

Inspection includes references to the 2024 IRC code, 2023 NEC code, links and graphics from manufacturers' installation instructions, 360° photo documentation of major rooms, evaluating the installation in accordance to the structural plans (if available), and of course advice on communicating with the builder.

PLANS

STANDARDS

MANUFACTURER

More Information

360° PHOTOS

DOCUMENTATION

FINAL AND WARRANTY

A higher standard in new construction code inspections

Final construction inspections include orange taping on site, references to the 2024 IRC code, 2023 NEC code, NAHB Guidelines, links and graphics to manufacturers' installation instructions, and thermal image scan.

Warranty inspections include the above but also references from the builder's warranty standards and a repair estimate for builder negotiations.

As with all inspections, I am happy to share advice on communicating with the builder.

IRC NEC MFG NAHB BLDR

THERMAL

STANDARDS

NAHB

TAPE

WARRANTY DOC

ESTIMATE

MY INSPECTION PHILOSOPHY

Clear findings. Code references. Repair-ready.

A quality home inspection report serves multiple readers—homeowners, builders, engineers, and attorneys when disputes require documentation. I believe that a great new construction inspection report should be designed with all three audiences in mind.

For that reason each report includes photo and video documentation of deficiencies, references to IRC, NEC, and manufacturer installation standards, and precise locations to streamline builder repairs.

After your inspection, I believe a great inspection should follow with as needed support including builder communication, repair recommendations, and guidance on next steps. Bilingual services available in English and Spanish.

Navigating new construction involves agents, contracts, lenders, and builders competing for your attention. As your independent third-party inspector, I personally believe in advocating for you and your home.

Find out what makes a great report

"Good morning, Casey, Thank you for your thorough inspection, a quality secondary inspection really helps me evaluate my staff and see the areas where they can improve. If you ever want a job with great benefits and advancement opportunities let me know!

- Chief Building Inspector, City of Austin

FIND ME

ON YT

MEMORABLE INSPECTIONS

: Pre-drywall inspection on beautiful Arbogast home in Spanish Oaks

: Forensic inspection on tornado-damaged structures in Round Rock

: Custom home warranty inspection outside the city

: Neighboring house caught fire during my inspection

: Class 4 rated shingles survived the hail storm of 2023 in Mueller

: Volunteering with Habitat For Humanity with my wife

: Typical pre-pour foundation inspection on production home

: Final inspection of luxury home in Austin

: Common production home pre-drywall inspection

: Showing improper fastening contributed to shingle failure on mansard roof

: Pre-drywall inspection on very well built structure in the city

: 3d-printed house inspection in Austin

: Massive modern build off of 360

: Subsidence noted at pre-pour inspection later led to slab failure

: Foundation map showing failure of the slab

WHAT YOUR NEIGHBORS SAY

Mark Emmert

Quality inspection service that saved me thousands of dollars. Constructiva’s Board-certified and experienced inspectors conducted a thorough and easily understandable review of my recently constructed home, identifying deficiencies, prioritizing them, and estimating repair/replacement costs in a well organized verbal debrief and final report. The professional advice was presented in such a way as to give me the knowledge and understanding to relay it to construction workers and building professionals alike. It will ultimately save me between $6K-12K and definitely worth doing. The inspectors were polite, courteous, and extremely knowledgeable. I would highly recommend them and have already done so with family and friends.

William Barfield

As an attorney, I refer clients to people I trust, and Casey Callais at Constructiva Realty Inspections has repeatedly earned that trust. He and his team have stepped in for my clients during the home-buying process and delivered thorough, clear inspections every time. Casey takes the work seriously and genuinely cares about helping people move forward with confidence. He is responsive, professional, and stands behind his work. I recommend him without hesitation.

Trey Sturgis

Casey did an absolutely incredible job with both my pre-pour and framing inspections. His attention to detail is unmatched, and he is exceptionally thorough throughout the entire process. What sets his work apart is how digestible he makes the final report—it was packed with detailed illustrations and clear visual breakdowns that made complex structural components easy to understand. If you need a home inspector who is professional, meticulous, and truly looking out for your best interests, I highly recommend Casey and Constructiva Realty Inspections!

Nicolas Morel

There’s no one better in the business. He provides so much value in the home purchasing process. Comprehensive breakdowns of all codes and compliance with citations. I will turn to no one else other than Casey.

Angie Wimberly

Casey was very easy to talk to and communicated with us clearly every step of the way - from making sure we could get him scheduled when we needed, to what we needed to pay attention to most from our inspection. It was clear he was very experienced, but explained things in a way that was easy to understand. We got a quick summary of the bullet points day-of, then a very detailed report with photos and descriptions the next morning. Highly recommend his service!

Madhu Sreeram

I reached out to Casey after noticing his informative home inspection posts on social media. I wanted a second opinion because a roofing company advisor had told me my roof was in bad shape and needed replacement, showing me several pictures to support his recommendation. During the inspection, he clearly explained his observations while we had a friendly conversation, we even chatted about RRISD high schools! Based on the inspection, it turned out the roof didn't needed replacement, a few fixes would give a few more years.As an independent inspector, Casey can truly be relied upon to protect the homeowner’s best interests.

Alfonso

Casey was great to work with he let us know when is ETA is and gave us great insights for our inspection. Highly recommended.

Brad

Casey is the best inspector I have ever used! He is very thorough and his reports are exceptional.

Anicia Obregon

We highly recommend this company. Casey does an amazing and detail oriented inspection. He undoubtedly saved us a fortune in the future. Thank you so much!

WANT TO BOOK?
SCHEDULING FORM.

HAVE A QUESTION?
CONSTRUCTIVAINSPECTIONS
@GMAIL.COM

NEED QUICK RESPONSE?
737-296-3060.

FOOTPRINT

AUSTIN, KILLEEN, SEGUIN, BASTROP, DRIPPING SPRINGS AND ALL LOCATIONS IN BETWEEN

INSPECTOR

CASEY
CALLAIS

constructivainspections
gmail dot com

PHONE

737 296 3060

Monday — Saturday 8:30 AM — 8:00 PM

The report was excellent. I forwarded it to my building manager that next morning and he fixed up (almost) everything before closing. He was actually super appreciative of the report, he said he wished all his customers used you as their 3rd party inspector :)
- SP, Client in Austin

More Than An Inspector.

TREC LICENSED

CODE CERTIFIED

TDA LICENSED

DETAIL ORIENTED

EXPERIENCED

KNOWLEDGEABLE

HISPANOHABLANTE

AN ADVOCATE.

PRE-POUR INSPECTION

PTI IRC

PLANS

LEVEL

SQUARE

DOCUMENTATION

STANDARDS

IRC NEC

PRE-DRYWALL INSPECTION

PLANS

STANDARDS

MANUFACTURER

360° PHOTOS

DOCUMENTATION

FINAL AND WARRANTY

IRC NEC MFG NAHB BLDR

THERMAL

STANDARDS

NAHB

TAPE

WARRANTY DOC

ESTIMATE

MY INSPECTION PHILOSOPHY

Clear findings. Code references. Repair-ready.

FIND MEON YT

MEMORABLE INSPECTIONS

WHAT YOUR NEIGHBORS SAY

WANT TO BOOK?SCHEDULING FORM.

HAVE A QUESTION?CONSTRUCTIVAINSPECTIONS@GMAIL.COM

NEED QUICK RESPONSE?737-296-3060.

FOOTPRINT

AUSTIN, KILLEEN, SEGUIN, BASTROP, DRIPPING SPRINGS AND ALL LOCATIONS IN BETWEEN

INSPECTOR

CASEYCALLAIS

PHONE

737 296 3060

Texas Real Estate Commission Consumer Protection Notice

FIND ME

ON YT

WANT TO BOOK?
SCHEDULING FORM.

HAVE A QUESTION?
CONSTRUCTIVAINSPECTIONS
@GMAIL.COM

NEED QUICK RESPONSE?
737-296-3060.

CASEY
CALLAIS