What does an NHBC new build warranty cover?

Full answer

An NHBC Buildmark warranty is the most common new-build home warranty in the UK, though other providers (such as Premier Guarantee or LABC Warranty) offer equivalent cover. It is designed to protect buyers of newly built or newly converted homes against defects and structural problems, and it typically runs for 10 years from completion. How it works: the cover is split into periods. During the first stage (commonly the first two years), the builder is responsible for putting right defects that breach the warranty's standards - things like faulty workmanship or materials. If the builder fails to act, the warranty provider can step in. In the later stage (commonly years three to ten), the cover becomes an insurance policy against specified major structural defects, for example problems with the foundations, load-bearing walls, roof structure, or other key elements. There is also usually some protection on your deposit before completion if the builder becomes insolvent. Who it affects: anyone buying a new-build home, and crucially their mortgage lender. Most lenders will not advance a mortgage on a property less than 10 years old unless it has an acceptable warranty or a professional consultant's certificate, so the warranty is often essential to the purchase going through. Important limits: a warranty is not a snagging guarantee for every minor cosmetic issue, and claims must usually meet defined thresholds and standards. Always read the policy document and consider an independent snagging survey on completion. A 2026/27 buyer note: the warranty is separate from the tax cost of buying. Stamp Duty Land Tax (in England and Northern Ireland) is charged in bands on the purchase price, with different bands and reliefs for first-time buyers; Scotland uses LBTT and Wales uses LTT. The exact thresholds change, so do not assume a figure - use the stamp duty calculator to estimate your liability and the mortgage calculator to plan repayments.

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