Looking after your new home
New homes need time to settle. This is often called “running in”.
Running in
As the building dries out, you may notice:
- small cracks in plaster
- minor movement in materials
- condensation if ventilation is limited
This is normal and not usually a defect.
The time it takes for your property to fully dry out depends on a number of things, so we recommend you don’t paint or put up wallpaper during the first 12 months. After that time, we recommend you fill in any cracks or nail pops before you start to decorate.
Reducing cracking and shrinkage
To help your home settle:
- keep your home well ventilated
- avoid extreme temperature changes
- heat your home evenly
- wait 9–12 months before redecorating
Small cracks are part of normal drying out and are your responsibility to fill and decorate
Condensation and ventilation
Condensation happens when warm, moist air meets cold surfaces. It is not a defect.
You can reduce condensation by:
- using extractor fans when cooking or bathing
- opening windows or using trickle vents
- drying clothes outside where possible
- keeping furniture slightly away from walls
- maintaining a steady temperature throughout your home
Safety and maintenance
As a shared owner, you are responsible for:
- annual boiler servicing by a Gas Safe engineer
- maintaining smoke alarms
- clearing gutters
- looking after gardens and fencing
- arranging repairs once the defects period ends
Insurance
As a shared owner, you’re responsible for arranging contents insurance to protect your belongings and internal fixtures.
While you are a shared owner, buildings insurance is arranged by whg and paid for through your service charge.
