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NHBC Buildmark Warranty: Your Complete 10‑Year New Home Protection Guide
Buildmark spans 10 years, with three distinct phases:
- Pre-completion protection – covers deposit loss or contract shortfall if a builder becomes insolvent.
- First 2 years (Section 2) – builder warranty backed by NHBC resolution service.
Years 3–10 (Section 3) – insurance for structural defects and related costs.
1. Pre-Completion: Deposit Protection
From exchange to legal completion, Buildmark insures deposits and any extra payment if a builder goes bust. Typically, this is up to 10% of the purchase price (max £100,000) for the first owner
2. Years 1–2: Builder Warranty + NHBC Guarantee
During this period, the builder must address any defects arising from non‑compliance with NHBC Technical Requirements If disputes arise, NHBC offers a resolution service to mediate and enforce repairs
3. Years 3–10: Structural Insurance
Once the initial two-year warranty ends, NHBC provides its own insurance—covering foundations, walls, roofs, plumbing, and more—for damage from defects. This includes costs for upheaval of furniture or temporary relocation for works
✔ Covered: Structural defects including:
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- Load-bearing walls, roofs, external doors/windows, chimneys
- Drainage systems
- Required repair costs, plus expenses for storage or temporary accommodation
- Contaminated land remediation
Summary of insurance limits:
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- Individual homes: up to £1 million for new builds, £500k for conversions;
- Shared structures: up to £25m for new builds, £5m for conversions
- Individual homes: up to £1 million for new builds, £500k for conversions;
- Coverage increases ~5% annually to match inflation .
✘ Not covered:
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- General wear & tear or poor maintenance
- Modifications made after handover (e.g., extensions)
- Damage from weather, accidental damage, theft, or fire
- Issues covered by other providers (e.g., appliance warranties)
During Years 1–2:
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- Report defects to your builder ASAP, with photos and communication logs.
- If unresolved, escalate via the NHBC resolution service after using the builder’s complaint process
During Years 3–10:
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- File directly with NHBC, providing evidence (photos, documents).
- Claims must meet the minimum claim value (MCV)—specified in your policy—otherwise NHBC will decline low-value claims
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- Transferability: Buildmark automatically transfers if you sell during its term—further enhancing resale value
- Secure mortgage: Most mortgage lenders insist on Buildmark insurance for new-build homes
- Policy limits: On shared structures, share of the total limit is allocated per home
- Accessing documents:
- Email ccsupport@nhbc.co.uk, quoting your name, address, postcode (and policy no. if known)
- Download booklets directly via the NHBC website if you have your policy number
- Email ccsupport@nhbc.co.uk, quoting your name, address, postcode (and policy no. if known)
- Transferability: Buildmark automatically transfers if you sell during its term—further enhancing resale value
|
Contact Type |
Details |
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General enquiries & documents |
0344 633 1000 (Mon–Fri, 09:00–17:00) ccsupport@nhbc.co.uk (nhbc.co.uk) |
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Claims team |
During 3–10 years: 0800 035 6422 Or via forms on NHBC site |
|
Complaints |
nhbc.consumeraffairs@ukemail.icasework.com |
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Office Address |
NHBC House, Davy Avenue, Knowlhill, Milton Keynes, MK5 8FP, UK |
- Proven history: Operating since 1936, now safeguarding ~80% of UK new homes
- Lender preference: Most mortgage providers require it for new-build lending
- Robust support: Includes NHBC’s trained dispute resolution and nationwide surveyor network.
- Inflation-adjusted cover: Limits escalate each anniversary to help match rising costs
Q. Can I claim for cracks or damp?
A. Yes—if they result from structural defects or failure to meet standards. Always check if defects exceed the minimum claim value before filing
Q. I’m the second owner—what limitations apply?
A. You inherit the original policy limits; prior claims may reduce remaining cover. Review your policy booklet or consult NHBC .
Q. What is the NHBC Technical Requirements?
A. These are mandatory building standards. If builders fail to meet them, resulting defects are covered .
The NHBC Buildmark warranty is more than a requirement—it’s a powerful protection package offering financial security, structural peace of mind, and lender confidence. Remember:
- Activate early: Your solicitor should activate Sections 1–3 at key stages.
- Document everything: Capture defects, maintain communication logs.
- Communicate smartly: Engage builders first, escalate to NHBC when needed.
- Review limits: Understand your policy limits and remaining coverage—especially as a subsequent buyer.
Your new home is your largest investment—NHBC Buildmark ensures that it’s also your most secure one.
