What is the 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. To find out more, take a look at our introductory videos and information on our What does the Code cover page.
Which version of the Code applies to you?
For homes* reserved up to and including the 31 December 2023, the Fourth Edition of the Consumer Code Scheme applies. Homes* reserved from 1 January 2024 will be covered by the Fifth Edition.
*Excludes homes that at the time of reservation by the first buyer are covered by the New Homes Quality Code. Builders operating under the NHQC must still comply with Code requirements for new homes reserved prior to activation with the NHQB
