Buying a newly built home - things to check

If you are buying a newly built home, make sure its covered by a good warranty to cover you if there are problems with the building. Use the checklist to find out things you should look out for, and find out how well the property meets environmental standards.

Warranties for newly built homes

Make sure that the property is protected by a good warranty (guarantee) provided by a reputable company.

Most new homes are protected by the National House-Building Council (NHBC) 10-year Buildmark warranty and insurance. However some builders use other warranty providers and can give you full details of the propertys warranty. Follow the link below for information on the LABC new home warranty, which is an example of another provider.

You should ensure that the final building control certificate is available if the new property isnot covered by an NHBC or similar warranty.

• National House-Building Council Buildmark warranty Opens new window

• LABC new home warranty Opens new window

Before you buy a newly built home

Check whether your builder is NHBC registered. You can do this by calling NHBC's helpdesk on 0844 633 1000 or searching the register on the NHBC website. If your builder is not registered with NHBC, check that you will be offered cover from another reputable company.

Check that the builder has a good reputation.

Ask to look around homes the builder has built before and talk to previous customers if possible.

Visit the site - is it tidy and well managed? This will give you information about the builders commitment to quality.

Take time to understand the cover provided by your warranty.

• Find an NHBC registered builder Opens new window

After exchange

Once you have exchanged contracts:

• get the warranty documents from your solicitor and read them carefully
• before taking possession of your home, make sure you inspect it carefully for any defects
• wait until the home is fully completed before you move in; once you have moved in, check your new home again thoroughly
• report any defects in writing to your builder and make sure you keep a copy
• if you are in dispute with your builder, write to the appropriate NHBC office, if registered under the scheme
• consider getting a structural survey done, especially if your home is more thantwo years old

Code for Sustainable Homes (CSH) compulsory rating for all new homes in England

All new homes in England now have to have a compulsory rating.This rating lets you know how well your home meets environmental standards.

The code helpshomebuyers get better information about the impact of their new home on the environment, and its potential running costs.

For more information on sustainable homes follow the link below.

• Sustainable development (environment and greener living section)

More useful links

• New Build HomeBuy scheme

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Source:

DirectGov

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