What a new build warranty is
A new build warranty is a form of insurance that protects buyers of newly built or newly converted homes against defects in the construction. Most mortgage lenders require one before they'll lend on a new build, which is why nearly all new homes come with one.
The warranty runs for around 10 years from completion and stays with the property, so if you sell within that time the remaining cover passes to the next owner. It's separate from any snagging fixes and from your contents or buildings insurance.
The two warranty periods
| Period | Who's responsible | What's typically covered |
|---|---|---|
| Years 1–2 (defects period) | The builder/developer | Most defects in materials and workmanship |
| Years 3–10 (structural period) | The warranty provider | Major structural defects (foundations, walls, roof) |
Cover narrows after year two, focusing on serious structural issues.
Common warranty providers
- NHBC Buildmark, the largest provider, covering most UK new homes.
- LABC Warranty, backed by local authority building control.
- Premier Guarantee, common on flats and developments.
- Checkmate / Build-Zone and others, used by some developers.
What's usually not covered
- General wear and tear and routine maintenance.
- Cosmetic issues reported after the first two years.
- Damage caused by you, weather events or lack of maintenance.
- Problems covered by your own buildings or contents insurance.
- Shrinkage and minor cracking from the home drying out (often excluded).
How to make a claim
Check the warranty period
Identify whether you're in the builder's defects period or the structural insurance period.
Report to the right party
In years 1–2 report defects to the developer; after that, contact the warranty provider.
Document the problem
Take photos, keep correspondence and note dates to support your claim.
Follow the process
Each provider has a claims and dispute resolution procedure: follow it and escalate if needed.
Keep records
Retain all paperwork; it transfers to a future buyer along with the remaining cover.
A warranty isn't a substitute for a snagging survey
Use the first two years to report every defect promptly while the developer is responsible. A professional snagging survey soon after completion helps you catch issues before they fall outside the most generous cover.
Confirm the warranty transfers on resale
When buying a new build that's a few years old, check the warranty is still valid, which provider issued it, and that it transfers to you. Without it, lenders may be reluctant and you'd carry the risk of structural defects yourself.