The Consumer Code for Home Builders

What is the Consumer Code?

The Consumer Code for Home Builders (the Code) makes the new-build home buying process fairer and more transparent for consumers, while helping the industry improve quality and customer service.

The Code sets mandatory requirements that home builders must meet in their marketing and selling of new homes and their after-sales customer service. Operating since 2010, it applies to most homes* covered by the UK’s main home warranty bodies NHBC, Premier Guarantee, LABC Warranty and Checkmate, and includes:

• an Independent Dispute Resolution Scheme
• an independently audited compliance regime
• the power to apply sanctions if builders do not comply with the Code
• an informative website and government-approved contact centre to aid consumers

The Code provides additional protection for home buyers from the moment you reserve your new-build home until two years after legal completion.

Why is the Consumer Code important to the homebuyer?

The Consumer Code acts as a rule book that all Home Builders have to follow and adhere to with regard to their marketing, selling and aftersales care.
The scheme ensures that new home buyers are better informed on vital aspects of their property.

The Code is there to ensure that homebuyers:

• Are treated fairly
• Know what services levels to expect
• Are given reliable information about their purchase and consumer rights before and after they move in.