When you move into a new-build property, you will benefit from a defects period. This is normally the first 12 months after the completion of the building, and not from when you move in.
During this period, the developer is responsible for fixing urgent repairs such as:
- heating or hot water breakdowns
- electrical faults
- easing or adjusting doors and windows
- plumbing repairs.
At the end of the year, we will carry out an end-of-defects inspection with you and the developer. Decorative items including shrinkage cracks will be reviewed at this time - you do not need to report these before the inspection. We will let you know you which items will be covered by the developer’s defect warranty.
If you are a shared owner, you will be responsible for servicing your heating system. This will be due at the time we carry out the end of defects inspection, and not from when you moved into your home.
What about problems after the defects period?
Rented homes
After the defects period you will need to report any repairs to our Customer Services Team. There will be some repairs which are your responsibility. This information can be found in our maintaining your home policy
Shared ownership homes
If you have any concerns or feel that you may have a latent defect, please contact the Aftercare Team for advice aftercare@wkha.org.uk The team will be able to advise if the repair can be reported back to the developer or if it is your responsibility.
Ten year repair offer for shared owners
If you’re a shared owner, you may be eligible for support with certain repairs under the ten year repair offer. This scheme helps cover essential repairs to your home that would normally be your responsibility, such as issues with heating systems, windows, or external doors. Eligibility depends on when you bought your home. Typically, homes purchased under the shared ownership model from 2021 onwards may include an ‘initial repair period’ in the lease, which outlines what repairs are covered and for how long.
If you think you might have an eligible claim or want to check your lease details, please contact our Home Ownership team at sales@wkha.org.uk or call 01732 749 900.
Find out more about buying, improving and selling shared ownership homes on the government's website.