Company details

Web: www.labcwarranty.co.uk

Telephone number: 0800 183 1755

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Checklists: How to run in your new build

New build home snagging

Propertychecklists works closely with LABC Warranty to make people aware of the need for reputable structural warranties and the issues that may arise when moving into a new build.

What do they do?

LABC Warranty provides structural warranties to protect you, the builder or homeowner. Mortgage lenders require a structural warranty to be in place on any new build property before they will consider offering a mortgage on it.

Since 2007, LABC Warranty has worked in partnership with Local Authority Building Control (LABC) to provide structural warranties. They work with some of the biggest housing developers and commercial contractors in England and Wales, drawing on the technical skills of more than 3,500 surveyors and providing expert advice on all aspects of the build.

Why it’s essential to get a structural warranty on a new-build home

Securing a structural warranty before a build starts is essential to protect whoever lives in the home. Any structural damage that may occur during the first ten years after a home is completed is then protected. Without protection, putting defects right can be hugely costly and may result in you losing your home.

Accredited and regulated for your peace of mind

LABC Warranty is backed by ‘A’ rated insurers and accepted by the UK’s leading banks and building societies.

• LABC Warranty partners with your Local Authority to provide structural warranties
• Its Technical Manual, which includes official guidance on building standards, is endorsed by the Royal Institution of British Architects and the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists
• It is an associate member of the Council of Mortgage Lenders, who represent mortgage lenders in the United Kingdom
• LABC Warranty’s scheme administrator, MD Insurance Services Ltd, is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

Top three tips

1. Make sure you have warranty cover in place before you purchase any house under 10 years old.

2. Understand your cover: most new home warranties are valid for 10 years and consist of two key periods of insurance:

• Defects insurance period – during years one to two of the policy the developer is required to rectify any part of your new home not built to the technical standards
• Structural insurance period – this cover takes effect after the first two years and will cover you for structural damage to the property

3. If you have bought a new build home, be sure to provide feedback to the New Homes Review. Its annual survey seeks to inform future home buyers and encourage developers and builders to continually improve customer experience.