Yes, and it’s one of the most commonly skipped steps by new-construction buyers who assume "new" means "flawless." Builders and municipal inspectors check for code compliance, but code compliance isn’t the same as quality construction — a home can pass every required inspection and still have issues like poor drainage grading, HVAC installation errors, or framing problems that only an independent, buyer-hired inspector is likely to catch.
New construction inspections typically happen at multiple stages if possible: pre-drywall (so the inspector can see the framing, electrical, and plumbing before it’s covered up), and a final inspection before closing. If you can only do one, the final walkthrough inspection is the minimum, but a pre-drywall inspection catches issues that become expensive or impossible to fix later.
It’s also worth understanding that the builder’s inspector and the municipal inspector both work in the builder’s interest or the city’s interest — not yours. An independent inspector you hire is working solely for you, which is an important distinction when problems are found and need to be negotiated before closing.
Most builders provide a one-year warranty, and some items are covered longer (structural issues often carry a longer warranty period). An inspection before closing gives you a documented baseline and a punch list to make sure the builder addresses issues before you take possession, rather than trying to get things fixed after you’ve already moved in and warranty claims become more of a hassle.