Protecting New Build Properties from Structural Defects

New build warranties have become an essential part of the buying and selling process; whether you’re a developer looking to assure potential buyers or a homebuyer seeking to protect your investment, a new build warranty offers reassurance and financial security.

Structural insurance policies apply to residential developments, social housing, mixed-use, commercial developments and major projects. They are also known as structural warranties, new home warranties, and latent defects insurance; for buyers using a lender or mortgage, a lender-approved 10-year structural warranty is required. At Build-Zone, we ensure our customers benefit from our excellent service and the security provided by our use of ‘A’ Rated insurers by offering latent defects insurance tailored to meet the specific needs of your development or project. This means you can rely on a trusted organisation that provides assistance when needed throughout the full duration of your policy.

The benefits of choosing Build-Zone

Established Provider
We’ve been providing Structural Warranties for Developers, Builders & contractors since 2003.

A Rated Insurer
We only use A rated insurers to make sure you have the best possible protection.

Lender Approved
All our Structural Warranties are approved by UK Finance (formerly CML).

Survey Facilities
We can Facilitate all your Building Control and Technical Audits.

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New home warranties or structural warranties are insurance policies designed to protect against defects in the construction of a new home, particularly those that affect the building’s structural integrity.

These warranties cover major structural defects for a specified period, typically ten years after construction. They are essential for safeguarding homeowners against significant repair costs due to structural failures caused by poor workmanship, design errors, or materials defects.

Key Components of Build-Zone Structural Warranties:

  • 10 or 12-year residential development structural warranty, backed by financially secure ‘A’ Rated insurers.
  • No membership or registration fees.
  • Accepted by the majority of lenders in the UK and an associate of UK Finance.
  • Fast quotation turnaround.
  • Quick response from professional, nationwide technical auditing/survey service.
  • Flexible payment method.
  • Full risk transfer in years 3-10 of cover.
  • Cover available for new build, conversion, social housing, build-to-rent, major projects and mixed-use developments.
  • Cover as standard for alternative accommodation, additional costs, removal of debris and professional fees.

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Is an Architect Certificate the same as a Structural Warranty?

Although no legislation mandates specific coverage for your new home after completion, UK lenders have their own requirements. The most widely recognised and comprehensive option is a 10-year structural warranty.

Recently, alternatives such as Professional Consultant Certificates (PCC) or Architect Certificates have become more common. However, these alternatives often lack the extensive coverage a structural warranty provides.

So, what exactly are the differences, and which one should you opt for?

  • An Architect Certificate covers a new home against design defects for up to 6 years and does not include workmanship or materials.
  • A Structural Warranty provides insurance coverage for 10 years and covers design, workmanship, and materials defects.
  • A Structural Warranty is required by most lenders when selling newly built homes and developments.

Discover why a Structural Warranty is the most comprehensive choice compared to an Architect Certificate

Call the Build-Zone team on 0345 230 9873 or visit our website