A 10 year structural warranty (sometimes called a new home warranty or latent defects insurance) protects the owner of a new or converted home against major defects in its structure for ten years after completion. If you plan to sell or mortgage the property, you will almost certainly need one.
Why you need one
- Mortgage lenders generally require an approved warranty before they will lend on a new build or converted home, so buyers usually can’t complete without it.
- Buyers expect it. Without a warranty a property can be hard to sell or refinance for years.
- Self-builders often need it for their own mortgage, and it protects the value of the home.
What it covers
Policies differ, but typically:
- Years 1 to 2: the builder is responsible for putting right defects, with the warranty provider stepping in if they don’t.
- Years 3 to 10: insurance cover for major structural defects, such as foundations, load-bearing walls, roofs and floors, and often weatherproofing.
Normal wear and tear, maintenance issues and cosmetic problems are not covered. Nor is anything the owner has changed or damaged, so check the exclusions in your policy.
Cover stays with the home, so it normally passes to each new owner for the rest of the period. That is why it matters to buyers as well as to you.
We compare lender-recognised providers for your project and coordinate the inspections, quoted with your Building Control and SAP if you need them.
Who needs one?
| Project | Do you need one? |
|---|---|
| New homes for sale | Almost always, as your buyers’ lenders will expect it |
| Self-build | Usually, if you have a mortgage or may sell within the cover period |
| Conversions to homes | Usually, if the homes will be sold or mortgaged |
| Homes to rent out | Often, if the scheme is financed or may be sold later |
| Extensions to your own home | Not normally |
When to arrange it
Before you start on site. The warranty provider needs to inspect key stages as the building goes up, such as foundations, structure and pre-plaster. Most providers can’t offer cover on a home that’s already finished, or only at a much higher cost.
How it works
- Send your drawings: we check the project and compare suitable lender-recognised providers.
- Register before work starts: the policy is set up with the provider.
- Inspections during the build: the provider’s surveyor checks key stages. Any issues need putting right as you go.
- Final certificate: once the provider is happy, the certificate is issued at completion. Your buyer’s solicitor and lender will ask for it.
What does a Structural Warranty cost?
There is no standard price, because each policy is priced on the project. The main things that affect it are:
- Rebuild cost: the cost to rebuild the home, not its sale price.
- Type of build: traditional construction is simplest. Timber frame, basements and conversions can mean more to check.
- When you take it out: cover arranged before work starts is normally the best value. Part-built and finished homes usually cost more.
- Number of homes: the price per home often falls on larger schemes.
Send us your drawings and we will get you a quote for your project.
Warranty vs Building Control
They are separate. Building Control checks compliance with the Building Regulations and issues a completion certificate. A structural warranty is an insurance product that protects the owner if a defect appears later. Lenders normally want both.
Warranty vs architect’s certificate
A Professional Consultant Certificate (PCC), or architect’s certificate, is a professional’s signed certificate, not an insurance policy. It often costs less, but not every lender accepts one, so check first. Read our comparison: PCC or Structural Warranty?
What to send for a quote
- Your drawings and the site address
- The number and type of homes
- The build method, such as traditional or timber frame
- The estimated rebuild cost
- How far the work has got, if you have already started
Related services: 10 Year Structural Warranty, Building Control, Structural Engineering.
Frequently asked questions
Is a Structural Warranty a legal requirement?
It isn’t required by law, but mortgage lenders generally require one on new and converted homes, so in practice most developments need one.
Can I get a Structural Warranty after the build is finished?
It’s difficult. Most providers need to inspect during construction. Retrospective cover is limited and more expensive, so arrange it before you start.
Do conversions need a Structural Warranty?
Usually yes, if the new homes will be sold or mortgaged. Conversion warranties are available for schemes such as barns, offices and commercial buildings converted to flats.
How long does a Structural Warranty last?
Typically 10 years from completion, and some providers offer 12 or 15 year options.
Does a Structural Warranty transfer to a new owner?
Normally yes. Cover stays with the home for the rest of the period, so check the policy wording.
Who do I contact if I find a defect?
In the first two years, usually the builder. After that, contact the warranty provider named on your certificate.
Last reviewed: November 2026. General guidance for England only. Get project-specific advice before relying on it.
More guides in the Developer Knowledge Centre · Services: 10 Year Structural Warranty