New consumer code will increase protection

The new Consumer Code for New Homes (CCNH) will provide genuine protection for individuals and families who purchase new build properties, according to the Federation of Master Builders (FMB).

Commenting on the CCNH, which the FMB’s insurance arm has just joined, Brian Berry, chief executive of the FMB, said: “For the vast majority of people, buying a home will be the single biggest financial expense of their life. Consumers are therefore entitled to expect only the highest standard of customer care at every stage of the purchase, and builders have a duty to meet those standards.

“By joining the CCNH the FMB is making clear that its members will fulfil their obligations on transparency and building excellence. At a time when there’s immense pressure on house builders to increase their delivery of new homes, it’s imperative that the drive to increase numbers does not lead to a reduction in quality.”

Berry continued: “For small local house builders, quality is their unique selling point. Smaller developers deliver lower volumes of properties, which means their focus is overwhelmingly on maintaining a reputation for delivering homes built to the highest standard. It’s a reflection of that emphasis on quality, as well as the rigorous inspection processes that Master Builders undergo, that the FMB has been able to join the CCNH.

“It will give consumers extra reassurance that, if buying a home from one of our members, they will be fully protected from pre-purchase to several years after they have moved in.”

Berry concluded: “Up until now, the long-standing Consumer Code for Home Builders – involving NHBC, Premier Guarantee and LABC Warranty, and which was set up by these warranty providers – was the only game in town. This newly launched CCNH aims to both improve choice and promote the highest standards in consumer protection for home buyers, by providing an umbrella code for other warranty providers, including the FMB.

“This can only be a good thing in the drive to increase consumer protection and the quality of new housing.”