Jake Kitt
19 Mar 2025
How Certibuild can help you avoid common defects…BEFORE you move in.
Buying a new-build home is exciting, promising modern comforts, energy efficiency, and the ease of a hassle-free property. But the reality for many homeowners tells a different story. Recent research from LABC Warranty and This Is Money revealed startling insights:
New homes have an average of 157 defects each.
Defects are widespread, from external walls (31%) and roofs to windows, doors, and internal structures, severely impacting homeowner satisfaction and causing stress and financial strain.
Most common defects in new-build properties
According to LABC Warranty's 2023 analysis, these are the areas most affected:
External Walls (31%): Cracks, poor insulation, and water ingress.
Roofs (18%): Loose tiles, leaks, and inadequate insulation.
Upper Floors and Internal Structures (16%): Poor finish, uneven flooring, and structural instability.
Windows and Doors (12%): Misalignment, poor sealing, and draughts.
Floors and Drainage Issues (9%): Improper levelling, drainage blockages.
The list unfortunately doesn't end there as the chart opposite (source: LABC) shows:
In fact, the helpful (ThisIsMoney) graphic below highlights a number of faults that may be found in modern houses:
Why this matters to you
Defects can quickly turn a dream home into a costly nightmare, damaging trust in home builders and negatively impacting homeowner satisfaction. According to This Is Money, new homes in the UK now average 157 defects, highlighting the pressing need for improved quality assurance.
Certibuild: Your trusted partner for quality property assurance
Certibuild is committed to reversing this trend. We hope this article helps any self-builders completing their own snagging however we would always recommend getting the professionals in to cast an expert eye as your development evolves. The Certibuild team are expert Approved Building Inspectors, and our experience and comprehensive approach ensures your property meets exceptional standards, safeguarding your investment through tailored solutions:
Comprehensive new-build warranties: our Structural Warranties or Professional Consultants Certificates provide homeowners peace of mind, offering protection against structural defects and aiding swift resolutions if problems arise.
Expert technical inspections: Certibuild's rigorous inspections at critical construction stages help builders identify and rectify defects early, significantly reducing post-completion issues.
Our Professional Snagging Services help identify any defects BEFORE the property is signed off as complete and before the new owner moves in. See our website for more information on this valuable service.
Professional approach to help developers and builders succeed: Our team provides support to builders, focusing on best practices and proactive defect prevention strategies, ensuring high-quality outcomes.
Certibuild: Your partner in quality construction assurance
At Certibuild, we understand that prevention is better than cure. Through our proactive snagging services and comprehensive warranties, we empower builders, developers and homeowners to benefit from homes that meet the highest standards of safety and craftsmanship, helping you enjoy your new home worry-free.
Connect with Certibuild
Discover how Certibuild can support your journey to defect-free homeownership through our property assurance services. Visit our website or contact our expert team today.