Before you buy
What to look for when buying a new home
In association with
Your essential checklist
- Check that your builder is NHBC (National House-Building Council) registered. You can do this by calling NHBC's help desk on 0845 845 6422, or visiting the register at www.nhbc.co.uk. If your builder is not registered with NHBC check that you will be offered cover from another reputable company.
- Check that the builder has a good national or local reputation.
- Ask to look around homes the builder has built before and chat to previous customers if possible.
- Visit the site - is it tidy and well managed? This will give another clue about the attitude of the builder and his commitment to quality.
- If you need a mortgage ask your lender at an early stage. For help and advice on mortgages, visit our mortgage centre. Employ a solicitor (or licensed conveyancer) and seek professional advice if you are in doubt. Visit our legal centre for advice and to find legal assistance in your area.
- Take time to understand the Buildmark Cover. A specimen copy is available to read and order at NHBC's website www.nhbc.co.uk. Please refer to the booklet issued on your home for exact details of the cover provided.
- Once you have exchanged contracts get the Buildmark documents from your solicitor and read them carefully.
- Always wait until the home is fully completed before you move in. Once you have moved in check your new home again thoroughly (see What to look for when you move in to your new home).
- Report any defects in writing to your builder and make sure you keep a copy.
- If in dispute with your builder write to the local NHBC office.
- You should always consider getting a structural survey done, especially if the home is more than a couple of years old and outside of the initial two year period of the Buildmark Cover.
- For more information about NHBC and the Buildmark Cover, visit www.nhbc.co.uk
