Building Warranties: What to Check Before You Sign

Before choosing a builder, ask for the proposed contract and details of any warranty or guarantee in writing. The words “warranty” and “guarantee” alone do not tell you what is covered, how long it lasts or who is responsible if something goes wrong.

Separate the different kinds of protection

• A contractual defects arrangement describes how issues with the builder’s work will be reported and dealt with under the agreed contract.
• A manufacturer’s warranty applies to a particular product and has its own terms, registration requirements and exclusions.
• A structural warranty or insurance-backed policy is a separate product with defined cover. If one is needed, establish who arranges it and when.

Ask which of these, if any, are included in the proposed project. Do not assume a particular duration, transferable cover or protection against every defect.

Questions to ask before signing

• Who provides the cover and how do I contact them?
• What work, materials or products are included?
• When does the cover start and end?
• What exclusions, maintenance duties, excesses or limits apply?
• Does it include labour as well as replacement materials?
• What happens if the provider stops trading?
• Can the cover transfer to a future owner, and on what terms?
• How should a defect be reported, and what response process is agreed?

Your consumer rights are separate

A warranty is not a replacement for statutory rights. For consumer services, the law requires reasonable care and skill. Where no specific time or exact price is agreed, requirements concerning a reasonable time and charge can also apply. See the government’s explanation of statutory rights.

If a problem arises, keep photographs and written records, notify the relevant business and seek advice about the circumstances. GOV.UK explains where to obtain consumer help.

Keep the handover paperwork

Keep the signed contract, approved variations, invoices, applicable certificates, product instructions and warranty documents together. Record any outstanding items and the agreed arrangements for resolving them.

Discuss the terms for your project

For work with Stellar Construction, ask us to confirm the terms applicable to your specific quotation and contract. This article does not promise a particular warranty period or insurance policy. Send us details of your proposed building work to begin the discussion.

Reviewed September 2026.