For home buyers of new build properties (including reserving a plot and newly converted properties) there is a Consumer Code in place.
Conveyancing Executive, Mandy Johnson explains “This was developed by the home building industry to make the home buying process fairer and more transparent for purchasers. The Code aims to ensure that all buyers are treated fairly and are fully informed about their purchase and their consumer rights, before and after they move in. It also provides a dispute resolution service.”
The Code applies to all builders and developers registered with the UK’s main new home warranty providers – NHBC, Premier Guarantee, LABC Warranty. It consists of 19 requirements and principles that builders must meet with their marketing and selling of homes and their after-sales customer service.
The Code only applies to ‘complaints arising and made within two years of the date of legal completion of the first purchase.’
If a home buyer has a dispute because they believe the builder has failed to meet the requirements of the Code they may refer their complaint to an independent Dispute Resolution Scheme. Before the Consumer Code was introduced, a home buyer who felt they had a claim against their builder would have had to take a case to court if the claim was not covered by their Home Warranty Scheme. The dispute resolution scheme determines the builder’s responsibilities without the customer having to take this action.
If you are considering buying a new build property do check to make sure your builder is registered with this scheme and that you are given all the relevant documents.
For a free initial meeting please call 01202 499255 and Mandy or a member of her team will be happy to discuss any questions you may have.
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