Understanding Your Rights When Buying a New Build Home

NHBC Warranty

One of the most well-known protections for newly built home buyers is the NHBC (National House Building Council) warranty. This warranty is designed to cover various aspects of the new build process, providing buyers with significant peace of mind.

1. What is the NHBC Warranty?: The NHBC warranty, also known as Buildmark, is a 10-year insurance policy for newly built homes. It is the most widely used new home warranty in the UK, covering approximately 80% of new builds.
2. Coverage Details:
   • First Two Years: During the first two years after completion, the builder is responsible for fixing any issues that arise, including structural defects, plumbing problems, and other faults.
   • Years Three to Ten: From the third to the tenth year, the NHBC warranty covers major structural issues, such as subsidence or structural damage, that could affect the home’s stability.
3. Additional Schemes: Other similar warranty schemes include Premier Guarantee and LABC Warranty, both of which offer comparable coverage and protections.
4. How to Make a Claim: If you encounter a problem covered by the NHBC warranty, the process for making a claim is straightforward. Initially, contact the builder to report the issue. If the builder fails to address the problem, you can then escalate the claim to NHBC, which will intervene to resolve the matter.

By understanding these legal protections and the specifics of the NHBC warranty, new-build home buyers can feel more secure in their purchase, knowing they have recourse if things go wrong.

Common Issues with New Build Homes

Snagging Lists

A snagging list is a crucial tool for newly built home buyers. It is essentially a checklist of defects or unfinished work that needs to be addressed by the builder. Compiling a thorough snagging list ensures that any issues are identified and rectified before you fully settle into your new home.

Definition: A snagging list is a document that details minor defects and unfinished work in a newly built property. It covers a wide range of issues, from cosmetic blemishes to functional faults.

Importance: Creating a snagging list helps ensure that your new home meets the expected standards of quality and finish. It also provides a formal record of any issues that need to be addressed by the builder, facilitating smoother communication and resolution.

Typical Defects

While newly built homes offer many advantages, they can also present various defects that need addressing. Some of the most common issues include:

• Blocked Guttering: Improperly installed or blocked guttering can lead to water damage and leaks.
• Poor Finishes: Cosmetic issues such as paint drips, uneven plastering, or unfinished surfaces.
• Brickwork Pointing: Defects in the pointing of brickwork can affect both the appearance and structural integrity of the home.
• Poorly-Fitted Doors or Windows: Misaligned or poorly installed doors and windows can lead to drafts, leaks, and security concerns.
• Sealant Issues: Inadequate or missing sealant around windows, doors, and other fixtures can cause moisture ingress and damage.

Quality Assurance

Ensuring that any defects are promptly and effectively addressed is essential for maintaining the quality and safety of your newly built home.

Steps to Take if Defects are Found:

1. Document the Issues: Take detailed notes and photographs of each defect. This documentation will be crucial when reporting the issues to the builder.
2. Report to the Builder: Provide the builder with your snagging list, along with any supporting documentation. Ensure that you communicate clearly and keep a record of all correspondence.
3. Follow-up: If the builder fails to address the issues within a reasonable timeframe, follow up with additional communication. Escalate the matter if necessary, involving third parties such as warranty providers or legal advisors.

How to Conduct a Snagging Inspection

When to Inspect

Timing is critical when it comes to conducting a snagging inspection. The optimal times to carry out an inspection are:

• Pre-Completion: Conduct an initial inspection before the final handover to identify any major issues.
• Post-Completion: Carry out a more detailed inspection shortly after moving in to identify any minor defects that may have been missed initially.

Professional Inspections

Hiring a professional snagging inspector can be highly beneficial, particularly if you lack experience in identifying construction defects.

Benefits of Professional Inspections:

1. Expertise: Professional inspectors have the knowledge and experience to identify a wide range of defects that may not be obvious to the untrained eye.
2. Comprehensive Reports: They provide detailed reports that can be used to hold builders accountable for rectifying issues.
3. Time-Saving: A professional inspection can save you time and effort, ensuring that all potential issues are identified in one go.

Cost Implications: The cost of hiring a professional snagging inspector varies depending on the size and location of the property, but it typically ranges from £300 to £600. While this is an additional expense, it can save you money in the long run by ensuring all defects are promptly addressed.

DIY Inspections

If you prefer to conduct the snagging inspection yourself, here are some practical tips:

1. Create a Checklist: Use a comprehensive checklist to ensure you cover all aspects of the property. Many templates are available online.
2. Take Your Time: Inspect each room thoroughly, paying attention to both cosmetic and functional details.
3. Use Tools: Basic tools such as a spirit level, torch, and tape measure can help you identify defects more effectively.
4. Document Everything: Take clear photographs and detailed notes of any issues you find.

Dealing with Developers

Reporting Issues

When defects are found in your newly built home, it’s crucial to report them promptly and effectively to the developer. Here are some steps to ensure your concerns are addressed:

1. Document the Issues: Before contacting the developer, document all defects with detailed notes and photographs. This evidence will support your claims.
2. Contact the Developer: Report the defects to the developer in writing, either through email or a formal letter. Clearly describe each issue and include your documentation.
3. Follow-Up: If you don’t receive a response within a reasonable timeframe (typically 14 days), follow up with a reminder. Keep a record of all communications.

Resolution Process

Understanding the resolution process is vital to ensure that your concerns are addressed efficiently.

1. Developer’s Responsibility: During the first two years after purchase, the developer is responsible for rectifying any reported defects. They should provide a timeline for addressing the issues.
2. Builder’s Warranty: If the developer fails to resolve the issues, refer to your builder’s warranty (such as the NHBC warranty). This warranty often covers major defects for up to ten years.
3. Escalation: If defects remain unresolved, escalate the matter by contacting your warranty provider. They will intervene and help ensure the issues are addressed.
4. Legal Recourse: If necessary, seek legal advice to explore further options. This may include mediation, arbitration, or pursuing a claim through the courts.

Persistent Problems

In some cases, issues may persist despite your efforts to resolve them with the developer. Here’s what to do:

1. Contact NHBC: If your builder is registered with NHBC, you can escalate unresolved issues to them. NHBC will investigate and work to resolve the problem.
2. Seek Legal Advice: For persistent problems, consult with a solicitor specialising in property law. They can advise on your legal options and help you take further action if needed.
3. Claim Compensation: If the defects have caused financial loss or inconvenience, you may be entitled to compensation. Follow the claims process outlined in your warranty or seek legal assistance.

Financial Protection and Support

Government Schemes

The UK government offers various schemes and incentives to support newly built home buyers:

1. Help to Buy: This equity loan scheme allows buyers to borrow up to 20% (40% in London) of the property’s value, interest-free for the first five years.
2. First Homes Scheme: Provides a discount of at least 30% on the market price of newly built homes for first-time buyers and key workers.
3. Shared Ownership: This enables buyers to purchase a share of a newly built home (between 25% and 75%) and pay rent on the remaining share.
4. Lifetime ISA: A savings account where the government adds a 25% bonus to your savings, up to a maximum of £1,000 per year, which can be used towards buying a home.

Compensation Claims

If you encounter unresolved issues with your newly built home, you may be entitled to compensation. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making a claim:

1. Review Your Warranty: Check the details of your warranty to understand the coverage and claim process.
2. Gather Evidence: Collect all necessary documentation, including photographs, correspondence with the developer, and any expert reports.
3. Submit a Claim: Follow the procedure outlined by your warranty provider or developer. This typically involves filling out a claim form and submitting your evidence.
4. Follow-up: Monitor the progress of your claim and follow up regularly. Ensure you adhere to any deadlines specified by your warranty provider.
5. Seek Legal Assistance: If your claim is denied or unresolved, consult with a solicitor to explore further legal options.

Conclusion

In summary, buying a newly built home can offer many benefits, but it’s essential to be aware of your rights and protections. By understanding legal protections, warranties, and the snagging process, you can ensure a smooth and successful home purchase.

Taking proactive steps, such as conducting thorough inspections and effectively reporting defects, will help safeguard your investment. Additionally, knowing how to deal with developers and seek compensation for unresolved issues can provide peace of mind.

Ensure Your New Build Home is Perfect with Home Snagging UK

Buying a new home is an exciting milestone, but it’s crucial to ensure your new property meets the highest standards of quality and safety. At Home Snagging UK, we specialise in identifying and addressing defects in newly built homes, providing you with peace of mind and protecting your investment.

Why Choose Home Snagging UK?

• Expert Inspectors: Our team of professional inspectors have years of experience in the construction industry, ensuring no defect goes unnoticed.
• Comprehensive Reports: We provide detailed, easy-to-understand reports that clearly outline any issues found, along with recommended actions.
• Nationwide Service: Based in Doncaster and Sheffield, South Yorkshire, we cover the whole of the UK at no extra cost.
• Customer Satisfaction: Our commitment to customer satisfaction means we work diligently to ensure all defects are promptly addressed.

Contact Us Today

Don’t leave the quality of your newly built home to chance. Schedule a professional snagging inspection with Home Snagging UK and ensure your home is built to perfection.

• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: 01234 567 890
• Address: 123 Green Building Lane, London, UK

Visit our website for more information and to book your inspection today!