NHBC Warranty
The NHBC warranty can be incredibly helpful, but only if you understand what it does — and does not — cover.
Your policy documents matter. Read them carefully, keep copies safe, and ask NHBC or a qualified legal professional if anything is unclear.
The builder warranty period is usually two years from the start date shown on your policy certificate. If anyone tells you differently, check directly with NHBC.
The key things to understand
Get your documents
Your certificate and policy booklet should be available after exchange. Keep them safe.
Read the policy
Do not skim it. The terms, exclusions and claim rules really matter.
First two years
This is when the builder is usually responsible for defects that breach NHBC requirements.
Years 3–10
After the builder warranty, cover becomes more limited insurance protection.
Ask NHBC
NHBC staff can be helpful. If you are unsure, call them and ask.
Get the certificate and policy booklet
After you exchange on a new build property, you should be able to access the relevant NHBC Buildmark documents for your home.
These documents are not just admin. They explain what protection applies, when it applies, who is responsible, and what steps you need to follow.
- Keep your Buildmark certificate safe
- Keep the policy booklet and schedule
- Check the policy start date
- Check who is named as the builder or developer
- Check any exclusions, limits or amendments
Read it properly
It is tempting to assume the warranty will simply protect you if something goes wrong. In reality, the wording matters. Read it carefully and ask questions early.
If you do not understand it
Speak to NHBC or a qualified legal representative. Do not rely only on what the builder, developer or sales team tells you.
How the cover changes over time
After exchange
Buildmark includes insolvency protection after exchange and before legal completion, subject to the policy terms.
First two years
The builder warranty period is usually two years. During this period, the builder is normally responsible for rectifying problems arising from failure to meet NHBC requirements.
Years 3–10
After the builder warranty ends, NHBC cover is usually insurance cover for certain types of defects. It is not the same as the first two years.
This is why the first two years matter so much. Report defects promptly, in writing, and make sure you understand the process before the builder warranty period ends.
The first two years: NHBC can be your friend
During the builder warranty period, NHBC may be able to help through its resolution service if you have reported issues to the builder and followed the required complaint process.
This is why it is so important to report defects correctly, keep records, and make sure everything is logged before the builder warranty period expires.
- Report issues as soon as reasonably possible
- Report them in writing
- Keep a record of who you contacted and when
- Follow the builder’s complaint process
- Contact NHBC if the builder does not resolve valid issues
Do not be afraid to call NHBC
In our experience, NHBC staff were friendly and helpful. If you do not understand something, call their helpline and ask them to explain it.
Questions worth asking NHBC
- What is the start date of my policy?
- When does the builder warranty period end?
- Who should I report defects to?
- What records do I need to keep?
- When can I use the resolution service?
After the builder warranty: cover is more limited
After the builder warranty period, the NHBC policy becomes more like an insurance policy. It does not cover every defect or every unfinished item.
In years 3 to 10, the cover is usually limited to specific types of damage or defects set out in the policy. That means issues that might have been easier to pursue during the first two years may become much harder later.
Do not assume “10-year warranty” means everything is covered for 10 years. Read the policy and check the exclusions.
Check if someone claims it is only 12 months
The builder warranty period is usually two years from the policy start date. If a developer, builder or contractor claims otherwise, check directly with NHBC and your policy documents.
Keep your paperwork safe
Your certificate, policy schedule, policy booklet, emails, reports and defect logs may all be important if you need help later.
Understanding your warranty gives you power
The more you know about your policy, the better placed you are to report issues correctly, meet deadlines and protect your home.
General information only
Always refer to your own NHBC policy documents. If you need legal advice, speak to a qualified professional.