When purchasing a new build property in 2025, understanding the warranties that come with it is essential for protecting your investment. New build warranties offer peace of mind, ensuring that any defects or issues are addressed by the builder or warranty provider. Here's a guide to what you should know about these warranties.

What is a new build warranty?

A new build warranty is a guarantee provided by the developer or a third-party insurer that covers the property against structural defects and certain other issues for a set period after purchase. In the UK, most new builds are covered by warranties from established providers like NHBC (National House Building Council), Premier Guarantee, or LABC (Local Authority Building Control). These warranties are designed to protect homeowners in case of construction flaws or material defects that might arise after the property is completed.

Duration of the warranty

New build warranties typically cover two main periods:

• Initial coverage (usually 2 years): During this time, the builder is responsible for fixing any issues related to the workmanship or materials used in the construction.
• Structural warranty (usually 10 years): After the initial period, the warranty shifts to cover serious structural defects, such as foundation or roof issues, which could affect the safety or stability of the property. This longer period ensures that any major problems, which might not become apparent immediately, are still covered.

What’s covered by the warranty?

The coverage can vary depending on the warranty provider, but most new build warranties cover:

• Structural defects like foundation issues, faulty roofing, or plumbing failures.
• Significant damage caused by defects, such as cracks in the walls or floors.
• Materials used in construction that don’t meet industry standards.

However, warranties typically don’t cover minor cosmetic issues like scuff marks or faulty appliances, which fall under the builder’s initial 2-year coverage.

How to make a claim

If you find a defect within the warranty period, contact your warranty provider directly. It's important to keep records of any issues, as well as documentation from the builder, and report the problem as soon as possible to ensure it is addressed.

Ready to make a safe investment?

Understanding new build warranties is a vital part of purchasing a new home. Be sure to review the warranty terms thoroughly before you sign on the dotted line, and keep documentation for future reference.

Have questions about new build warranties? Contact our team for expert guidance on your home purchase.