A new-build watchdog has officially been launched today, 8th February 2021, to raise standards and protect homebuyers.
The New Homes Quality Board (NHQB) will include consumer bodies, housebuilders, warranty providers, the finance sector and some independents; to be Chaired by the MP Natalie Elphicke. The board will oversee the introduction of a new industry code of practice and each sector will have an equal footing.
The board explained that the new code of practice – the New Homes Code – was key to the new quality arrangements which would fill gaps in existing consumer protections.
Under the Code, housebuilders will be expected to do much more to ensure quality and satisfaction, “from the sales process through to two years from when buyers move into their new home.”
Buyers raising a dispute will also be able to seek free support from an ombudsman service, to be known as NHOS.
“we already do all of these things including honouring the two year post sales process…. however, it is nice to hear that regulation is catching up and that more new home buyers will be protected in future. This is great news for our industry as a whole.”
