What do Solicitors need to know about the Consumer Code for Home Builders?

If you’re a solicitor or conveyancer acting for a developer, or a buyer, of a new-build home, the Consumer Code for Home Builders (the Code) is relevant to you. The Code exists to make the buying and selling of homes fairer and more transparent for consumers, and it’s important to be aware of your role in complying with the Code.

The Code applies to new properties covered by the UK’s four main warranty providers, NHBC, LABC Warranty, Checkmate and Premier Guarantee – accounting for approximately 95% of all new build homes.

If you are acting for a buyer, you should know what protection the Code affords your client, and avenues for redress if matters go wrong. Similarly, if acting for the developer, you need to be aware of the Requirements they must meet – particularly in relation to the information they must provide – to comply with the Code.

We’ve put together some quick tips to highlight the main aspects to be aware of:

Using the Code to support buyers:

• Download the Code requirements and guidance for builders so you’re aware of the expectations on developers from the start.
  
• Expect to receive a copy of the Code Scheme along with proposed contract, the legal title, and any other relevant documents and approvals, including information about town planning and other statutory approvals and consents as soon as your client signs a Reservation agreement.

• Ensure your client receives, from the developer or agent, the information required by the Code to enable them to make an informed purchasing decision. This includes a Reservation agreement, information about the Code and the Independent Dispute Resolution Scheme (IDRS), timescales and completion dates, termination rights and after sales information.

• Complete the Code’s free, one hour online training course – it’s a good idea to refresh your training annually.

• Be clear on termination rights at every stage of the purchase:

Helping developers comply with the Code:

• Use the Code requirements and guidance for builders to validate that the appropriate materials are prepared and shared with buyers at the right time, such as a written reservation agreement, a clear and legally compliant contract including termination rights, and information about any warranties that apply. Home builders are also required to have in place procedures for handling and resolving service calls and complaints from buyers, and make buyers aware of this in writing, alongside details of the Code’s dispute resolution scheme.

• Review reservation agreements and contracts to ensure they are compliant with the Code and written in plain English.

• Work with your client to ensure any changes made to a property are clearly communicated in writing and that consent is appropriately recorded.

• Include a description of any management services and organisations to which the homebuyer will be committed, together with an estimate of their cost, and the nature and method of assessment of any event fees, such as transfer fees or similar liabilities. This is not just important for compliance with the Code – failure to clarify the financial implications associated with a purchase could leave you open to a complaint via the Legal Ombudsman.

Don’t forget

Whether you are acting for a developer or a buyer, remind them not to rely on spoken statements when entering into a contract – putting assumptions in writing and seeking confirmation prior to exchange will reduce the risk of later disputes.

For more information about what solicitors and conveyancers need to know about the Code, watch our Chairman’s interview with Conveyancing Matters and visit our Resources section for solicitors.

Read more about our Independent Dispute Resolution Scheme