Who is the New Homes Ombudsman?

The New Homes Ombudsman is a service that homebuyers can access for the redress of new homes that are not up to scratch. Buyers of new-build properties who are unhappy and frustrated with their developer’s performance can ask the New Homes Ombudsman to review their case and rule whether it is a breach of the New Homes Quality Code.

What is the New Homes Quality Code?

The New Homes Quality Code is a code of practice from the New Homes Quality Board (NHQB) .  The new code helps to protect the customer by making sure builders and developers are upholding the quality of your new home as you expected. the New Homes Quality Code  sets out the requirements for a fair reservation agreement as well as sales contracts, making sure there is a “cooling off” period after purchasing. 

The new Homes Ombudsman service will be working alongside the New Homes Quality Code to help empower customers to feel more confident in their new build home, with high quality standards, service and customer satisfaction being delivered.

This is where we come in as professional snaggers, we are now permitted to carry out a pre-completion inspection of the new home on your behalf before you complete on your purchase. Call our the Holme Snaggers team and we can answer your questions and get you booked in 01733 855101.

When Can Complaints To The New Homes Ombudsman Be Made?

Complaints can be made about members of the scheme within the first two years of buying your new build home. Not only does this cover actual issues with the property, but also the conduct and quality of the work done by the developer. There will be a robust complaints process that responds to customers concerns in a timely manner and to their satisfaction, keeping them informed continuously throughout. 

Why Has The Need For The New Homes Ombudsman Occurred?

Usually, during the first two years of your property’s completion, it is the responsibility of the person who has carried out the work of your development to put right any damage or defects during the Defect Liability Period. However, warranty providers often carry out this work on the builder’s behalf.

The issues usually occur from three to ten years after the completion of the building work, where the warranty provides insurance cover against the cost of repairing only specific defects.

Developers will be required to become and remain a member of the New Homes Ombudsman scheme. 

Pre Completion Snagging

We pride ourselves on our pragmatic and thorough approach to our work. If you would like to arrange for one of our professional snaggers to inspect your new build home for a pre-completion inspection please call our team now on 01733 855101.