Structural Warranty

The Structural 10-Year Warranty, often called New Home Warranty New Build Warranty, is here to give builders, developers, contractors, and homeowners peace of mind by protecting against significant structural damage. While the UK government doesn’t require homeowners to get this warranty, many mortgage lenders do. It’s good to know that new homes can sometimes have hidden defects that could lead to expensive repairs down the line. Thankfully, this warranty steps in to help cover those repair or reconstruction costs when needed.

This warranty is valid for a generous ten years. Most homeowners secure it before construction kicks off, but no worries if you didn’t—it's also available during the building process or even for homes completed a few years back.

Typically, builders are responsible for their work for two years after construction wraps up, known as the defects insurance period. During this time, they need to address any issues related to workmanship, materials, HVAC systems, plumbing, and electrical installations. Keeping a record of any problems is super important for making claims.

For the following eight years, the insurance company has your back by covering structural issues that may pop up. Some common defects included in the warranty are:

- Dampness from poor ventilation

- Incorrectly installed damp proof membranes

- Paint flaking due to not enough prep work

- Drafty doors

- Water leaks from poorly fitted doors

Just a heads-up: the warranty usually doesn’t cover temporary housing costs during repairs, household appliances, small cracks, or general wear and tear. Coverage for dampness is typically included only if it’s caused by the developer not following standards.

Post-Construction Responsibilities

Once your home is complete, it’s a great idea to collaborate with your builder on property maintenance because not keeping up with it could affect your warranty claims. Remember, new build warranties aren’t standard insurance policies; they cover defects caused by the developer for a set period and don’t cover damage to your personal belongings.

When you’re considering the warranty, take some time to go through the terms so you understand when it activates, when the defects insurance period ends, and what’s specifically covered. It’s all about ensuring you have the best protection for your new home!