SmartNewHomes talks to NHBC (National House-Building Council) about the cover and peace of mind you get when buying a new home.
New homes are protected by warranties such as NHBC’s 10-year Buildmark warranty scheme.
SNH: What does the NHBC do?
NHBC: For 75 years, NHBC has been raising house-building standards to protect homeowners. If you are buying or recently bought a brand new home, the chances are it will be covered by NHBC’s 10-year warranty. We inspect all new homes registered with NHBC at key stages in their construction and survey over 100,000 new homeowners in their first year of ownership. This provides homebuilders with information on the quality of their new home and how well they treat their customers.
SNH: What does your Buildmark warranty cover?
NHBC: In the first 2 years of your Buildmark policy, the builder is responsible for putting right any defects that breach our Technical Standards and you should contact them in the first instance. If you are not satisfied with the builder’s response, then we can offer our free resolution service to determine what remedial work may need to be carried out. During years 3 to 10, NHBC provides you with cover against major expense arising from damage to all structural elements of the home. If you sell your new home within the 10-year period, the balance of the cover can be transferred to the new owner.
SNH: How many new homes do you cover?
NHBC: Our warranties protect around 80% of all new homes built in the UK and we've been raising standards in home building and providing consumer protection for 75 years. Buildmark is the UK's leading new home warranty.
SNH: Do you have any advice for new homebuyers about to move in?
NHBC: We advise you to check your new home before you complete your purchase and again when you move in. Our checklist can help you to do this and if there are items you're not satisfied with; notify your builder as soon as possible. It's important to date and keep copies of all correspondence as well as notes of telephone conversations or meetings.
Start searching for your new home on SmartNewHomes today.
See Also: Property News (6701), Property Articles (28), NHBC (19), New Homes (2), National House-Building Council (5)
Date Published: 29 June 2011
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