Make home buying easier with our free resources
Thinking of buying a new build home? Get a head start on the process with our free tips and resources.
This video summarises some of the free resources and toolkits we provide to help home buyers navigate the new build home buying process.
The Consumer Code for Home Builders is a code of conduct builders must meet in the buying and selling of new homes. It helps protect you, the home buyer, by setting out the information builders must give you, and the support and services they must offer. It also gives you access to free, independent dispute resolution if required.
A new home is one of the most complex and costly purchases you’re likely to make. That’s why it’s important to know what to expect and what support is available. This video introduces the main resources that will help, including:
New Home Buyers’ Pack
This free interactive PDF covers the main aspects of buying a new build home, including:
- What to look out for before you reserve
- What your reservation agreement should include
- What information and support to expect from your builder
- What to do if you have queries or complaints
The Consumer Code Scheme
The Consumer Code Scheme tells you in advance what to expect from your builder.
It also sets out who is covered by the Code, the terminology we use, and explains the Code’s Independent Dispute Resolution Scheme.
You can also download the ‘Consumer Code Scheme with Builder Guidance’ which includes examples of how builders might meet the requirements in practice.
Consumer Protection Overview
This summarises some of the main sources of support for new build and second-hand homes, including:
- Home warranty schemes
- Codes of conduct
- Consumer protection organisations
- Legal bodies and regulators
What to expect from your new home
New builds are complex structures built in the open air. They take time to dry out and fully settle. Our guide helps you determine what is normal, what could be a defect, and where to get help.
Snagging resources
Most new homes will have minor defects – or snags – which builders must put right in the first two years after completion. Use our free snagging resources to make the most of your pre-completion inspection and to report any ongoing issues.
Complaints Pack
Most home buyers are happy with their new home, but occasionally problems occur. Our complaints pack helps you consider what information to keep a note of and how to raise complaints or disputes with you builder should you need to.
Code Resources Hub
These are just some of the free resources you can download from the Resources tab on our website.
Don’t forget, we regularly publish useful insights and case studies covering different aspects of new build home buying to help you make more informed buying decisions.
To stay up to date, sign up to our newsletter on our website: www.consumercode.co.uk/subscribe
