If you’re buying a new-build home in the UK, you’ve likely come across the term “NHBC warranty.” But what exactly is it, and how does it protect you as a homeowner? Let’s break it down.
What Is the NHBC Warranty?
The NHBC (National House Building Council) warranty, also known as the Buildmark warranty, is the most widely used new-build home warranty in the UK. It’s a type of insurance that provides buyers with protection against structural defects in their new home.
Established by the NHBC, a leading warranty and insurance provider for new homes, the warranty is designed to give homeowners peace of mind. It’s an assurance that your home has been built to high standards and that you’ll be covered financially if any issues arise.
In most cases, if you’re purchasing a new home from a builder registered with NHBC, you’ll automatically receive this warranty as part of the sale. The warranty typically lasts for 10 years from the date your home is completed.
What Does the NHBC Warranty Cover?
The NHBC warranty is divided into three main periods of coverage, each designed to cover different potential problems that may arise after you move into your new home.
1. Pre-Completion Period
Before you move in, NHBC inspectors will carry out independent checks during the construction of your home. These checks ensure that the home is built to NHBC standards. If any issues arise during the build, the builder is responsible for fixing them before you take possession of the property.
2. Builder Warranty Period (Years 0-2)
For the first two years after you complete the purchase, your builder is responsible for fixing any issues that arise with the construction of your home. This period is sometimes referred to as the builder warranty period.
What’s Covered:
- Defects in workmanship or materials.
- Problems with fixtures and fittings installed by the builder (like doors, windows, and sanitaryware).
- Faults that cause damage to your home, such as faulty wiring, plumbing issues, or heating system problems.
What’s Not Covered:
- Wear and tear, routine maintenance, or damage caused by the homeowner.
- Cosmetic issues like minor cracking or shrinkage, which are a normal part of a new home settling.
During this period, if you find any problems, you can report them to the builder, who is legally required to resolve them.
3. NHBC Insurance Period (Years 3-10)
After the initial two-year builder warranty period, the NHBC itself provides coverage for any major structural defects that could affect the integrity of your home.
What’s Covered:
- Structural defects that affect the foundations, walls, roof, ceilings, and other load-bearing elements.
- Problems that may cause subsidence or structural collapse.
What’s Not Covered:
- Non-structural elements like plumbing, heating systems, or electrical wiring.
- General wear and tear or cosmetic issues that occur over time.
- Any changes or modifications you’ve made to the property after moving in.
The coverage during this period is particularly important as structural defects can be costly to repair.
How to Make a Claim Under the NHBC Warranty
If you encounter an issue with your home, the process for making a claim depends on how long you’ve lived in the property.
- During the first two years: Contact the builder directly. They are responsible for fixing any issues covered under the warranty.
- Between years 3 and 10: If a structural issue arises, you’ll need to contact the NHBC to make a claim. You’ll likely need to provide evidence of the defect and how it’s affecting the structural integrity of your home.
The NHBC will assess the claim and may send inspectors to review the damage. If they agree that the issue is covered under the warranty, they’ll arrange repairs or compensate you for the cost.
What Isn’t Covered by the NHBC Warranty?
It’s important to remember that the NHBC warranty doesn’t cover everything. Here are a few exclusions to be aware of:
- Wear and tear: Normal aging and weathering of your home are not covered.
- Damage from neglect: If you fail to properly maintain your home, any resulting damage may not be covered.
- Alterations: Changes you make to the property after moving in, like extensions or significant renovations, are not covered by the warranty.
- Cosmetic issues: Minor cracks, shrinkage, or paint touch-ups aren’t considered serious enough to be covered, especially after the first two years.
Conclusion
The NHBC warranty offers significant protection to homeowners who purchase new-build properties, covering defects in both the short and long term. From ensuring your builder resolves any initial issues to providing peace of mind with structural coverage for up to a decade, the warranty is a vital part of buying a new home in the UK.
If you’re considering buying a new-build, make sure to understand the scope of the NHBC warranty and what’s covered. While it doesn’t cover everything, it provides a strong safety net for major problems, allowing you to focus on enjoying your new home with less worry.
