Defects in new build homes

Defects Liability Period

This period:

• is typically 12 months
• starts from the date the home was completed, not the date you bought it
• may be shorter if you purchased after completion

The end date for your defects period is shown on your Completion Handover Checklist 

What is not a defect

A defect in a new build home is a significant fault that occurs as a result of the way the home has been built (a non-compliance of the relevant building warranty standards). Some issues are not classed as defects and are your responsibility to fix. These include:

• normal wear and tear
• decorating
• gardening and fencing
• condensation caused by everyday living
• shrinkage cracks within accepted tolerances
• blockages caused by misuse (for example wipes or nappies)
• dead grass due to shading, leatherjackets or lack of maintenance

We assess defects by reviewing the warranty standards the house was built to. 

You can find out what is classed as a defect and who to contact in our guide below.

How to report a defect

During the Defects Liability Period:

• report defects to whg, not directly to the builder
• contact us and include photos and a clear description

We will:

• log the defect
• prioritise it as either as emergency, urgent or routine
• instruct the builder where appropriate
• monitor progress and follow up if needed.

After the defects period ends

Once the defects period ends:

• no new, minor defects can be reported
• repairs are your responsibility under your lease

You may be able to:

• claim on your building insurance
• use the repairs allowance (if your home is covered by the new shared ownership model)
• claim under your building warranty. If this is the case, you must notify whg so we can support you with your claim. whg will also take the lead on arranging for repair works if the claim is successful.

If you’re unsure what applies to your home, contact us.

Warranties

Our new homes include a 10 or 12 year building warranty, valid from the date they were built. A copy of your building warranty certificate and a breakdown of what is covered is in your Home User Guide. This is an extended warranty, supplied by a number of insurers including NHBC, Premier Guarantee and LABC. Once the defect period ends the building/ structural warranty takes over. Refer to your warranty document in your handover pack as this will explain what is covered.