Developers in the dark over 15-year new-build warranty requirements
A recent study into developers’ understanding of the Building Safety Act (2022) has revealed a worrying lack of knowledge regarding the requirement for 15-year home warranties on new builds completed. The survey, commissioned by leading IT, construction and infrastructure training company, Synergie Training,* found that more than one in three (39%) of respondents are unaware of the changes and their implications for developers, homebuyers, and warranty providers. And of those that are aware, almost half admitted they are yet to carry out training regarding the new BSA requirements, leading to a significant knowledge gap.
Understanding the 15-year home warranty requirement under the Building Safety Act
Under Section 144 of the Building Safety Act (2022), new homes and new dwellings including loft conversions and similar, now require a minimum 15-year warranty – up from the previous ten-year warranty requirement. This aligns with the extended period under the Defective Premises Act 1972. Developers need to be aware that if they fail to provide compliant warranties, they could be subject to a maximum penalty of £10,000 or 10% of the sale price, whichever is greater.
Whilst Project Managers surveyed have the greatest level of knowledge around the 15-year warranty requirement (70%) they also had the highest proportion of individuals who learned about the requirement only while completing the Synergie survey (13%). Designers were most likely to admit to gaps in their understanding and a requirement for more information (62%), with just 31% saying they have a thorough understanding.
Common knowledge gaps
“With significant penalties likely to be imposed on noncompliant developers, it is clear the new 15-year warranty requirement can have a significant impact on businesses,” commented Clark Hunter, Sales Director for Synergie Training, part of the TTC Group. “With more than one in three businesses in our survey admitting to lacking knowledge on the requirement, developers need more information and training to help them practically implement processes and adhere to the BSA. The financial consequences of not being compliant could be considerable so having a thorough understanding of what is required needs to be sought sooner rather than later.”
Training solutions to meet the 15-year home warranty requirement
Synergie Training urges all businesses involved in construction and infrastructure to review their current Building Safety Act preparedness immediately. Prioritising comprehensive training and regular competency assessments is not just a matter of compliance, but a vital investment in safety, reputation and long-term business resilience.
To help businesses navigate the complexities of the legislation, including the new-build 15-year warranty requirement, Synergie Training has launched a range of Building Safety Act training courses, targeted at increasing understanding of The Act and the secondary legislation improving construction competency and meeting safety obligations for high-risk buildings.