Audit of inspection records

Advice for Homeowners

We are currently addressing an issue regarding incomplete data in some of our historical inspection records.

We have found that our electronic inspection records relating to a very small proportion of homes are incomplete. As a result we cannot, in a low percentage of cases, confirm that items of work reported to builders during inspection were addressed, although they do confirm that the items were reported to the builder and recorded on site during construction. Some of these items are potentially safety related and we therefore feel that it is important to undertake an exercise to bring our electronic records for these items up to date. This issue applies to only approximately 0.3% of all items reported.

Every builder concerned has been asked to provide verification that items notified were attended to. We are confident that in the majority of these cases the builders will have fulfilled their obligations and completed the work as required and the positive feedback we have received to date confirms this view. If for any reason the builders' records cannot confirm the work has been carried out, then it may be necessary to carry out an inspection to establish that the item was addressed. Where the original builder is no longer trading, NHBC will step in to ensure that their obligations have been fulfilled.

The vast majority of homeowners are unaffected by this. However, in the unlikely event that access is required to your home; either the builder or NHBC will contact you.

In the meantime, if you have any concerns, please call our Homeowner Contact Team on 0800 612 7063.

07 Sept 2011