Questions to Ask a Custom Home Builder in Corpus Christi Before You Sign 📝🏡

Texas does not require a state license for general home builders. The state agency that once registered builders was abolished in 2009. That puts the job of vetting a builder on you, and the right questions make it much easier.



How Long Have You Built on the Coastal Bend?

Building near the coast brings windstorm rules, flood zones and salt air that inland builders may not deal with every day. Ask how long the builder has worked locally and in which neighborhoods.

How Do You Handle Windstorm Certification?

Nueces County is in the Texas Department of Insurance catastrophe area. New homes there must be built and inspected to TDI windstorm standards to qualify for TWIA coverage. Ask who schedules the inspections and whether the builder has completed homes with windstorm certificates.

What Is Your Experience With Flood Zones and Elevation?

If your lot is on North Padre Island, Mustang Island or another low-lying area, it may need to be elevated on pilings. Ask how the builder handles base flood elevation, elevation certificates and foundation design. Our post on slab vs. stilts foundations explains how flood zones shape this decision.

Who Are Your Subcontractors, and Are They Licensed?

While builders are not licensed in Texas, some trades are. Electricians and HVAC contractors are licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, and plumbers by the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners. Ask who does that work and whether they hold current licenses.

What Does Your Warranty Cover?

Ask for the warranty in writing. Find out what it covers, such as workmanship, materials and major systems, and for how long.

What Is Included in the Price?

Ask which items are allowances, like flooring, fixtures or cabinets, and what happens if your selections cost more. Ask how change orders are priced and approved.

How Will You Keep Me Updated?

Ask how often you will hear from the builder and through what tool. Some builders use project management software that lets you track schedules, selections and photos online.

Can I See Finished Homes and Talk to Past Clients?

Visiting a finished home tells you more than any brochure. Ask for references from recent clients with projects like yours.

Do You Offer FORTIFIED Construction?

FORTIFIED is a voluntary standard that strengthens the roof and other parts of a home against high winds. Ask whether the builder offers it.

Builder Tip: Bring your lot address to your first meeting. A good builder will start by asking about flood zone, soil and permits, not just square footage.

How We Answer These Questions

South Texas Home Builders is a family-owned company that has built in the Coastal Bend since 2002. We are members of the National Association of Home Builders and the Coastal Bend Home Builders Association. We use Buildertrend to keep clients updated, and every home comes with a warranty covering workmanship and materials, plus electrical, plumbing and mechanical systems. We would be glad to answer these questions in person, so reach out to schedule a meeting.