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Buildmark - frequently asked questions

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As a builder, why should I choose Buildmark?

Buildmark is the market-leading product, backed by over 70 years' experience.  Our in-house experts support our registered builders with unrivalled technical knowledge and support.  Buildmark from NHBC is recognised and trusted by lenders and homeowners alike.

Why do homebuyers value Buildmark?

Buildmark cover for newly-built or converted private housing provides your buyers with insurance against major structural defects

Buyers who are purchasing a newly-built home will need cover such as Buildmark in order to secure a mortgage. Mortgage lenders will lend on homes that have this type of cover because they know the home will have been built to specified standards of construction.

What is and what is not covered by Buildmark?

Choose Buildmark and your homebuyers will be protected with:

• Pre-completion insolvency cover
• Cover for the first 2 years after completion if you don't meet your obligations to repair damage or defects
• Cover for damage to certain parts of the home in years 3 to 10
• Cover for pre-existing contamination on the land on which their home is built
• Protection for certain breaches of Building Regulations if our subsidiary or another NHBC registered Approved Inspector is appointed for building control

Buildmark does not provide cover for general wear and tear, condensation, normal shrinkage, cosmetic damage or damage arising from failure to maintain the property.

Full details of what is covered are in the Current Buildmark policy document

Please note that we offer the use of our Resolution Service to help settle disputes about defects or damage between you and the homeowner.

What types of project are covered by Buildmark?

Buildmark is designed to protect future owners of newly-built or newly-converted private residential housing.

How is the cost of Buildmark calculated?

Once you are registered with NHBC (see Become NHBC registered), you will need to register each plot for Buildmark cover.

The cost is dependent on your Premium Rating and the selling price of the new homes you are developing.

Registered builders can request a free Buildmark cover guide price with no obligation.

Who can apply for Buildmark?

Buildmark is available to all builders and developers registered with NHBC who wish to build or convert housing for sale.

When does Buildmark cover start and when does it end?

Buildmark gives protection to the buyer from exchange of contracts if, due to your insolvency or fraud, the home is not started or completed.

Buildmark cover ends 10 years after the date on the Buildmark insurance certificate - usually 10 years after the date of legal completion.

What is my liability under Buildmark?

You are responsible to rectify any defect or damage caused by your failure to build to NHBC Standards which is first reported to you within your liability period (usually the first 2 years following completion).  You must do this within a reasonable time and at your own expense.

For full details of your liability please see the Current Buildmark policy document.

Can cover be transferred to subsequent homeowners on sale?

When the home is sold, the remaining term of cover will automatically transfer to the new owner.

How do I find out more and apply for Buildmark?

To discuss your requirements for an existing or future project please call us on 0844 633 1000 and ask for 'Customer Services'.

Registered builders can request a free Buildmark cover guide price with no obligation.

To apply for a firm quotation and apply for cover please complete a SNIN (Site Notification and Initial Notice) form and Register the site with us.

What are the NHBC Standards?

To offer Buildmark cover, you are required to build in accordance with the NHBC Standards which provide a benchmark for acceptable levels of design, material specification and workmanship for newly-built homes registered with NHBC.

What are the changes to the 2012 Buildmark Policy?

The following document outlines the wording changes to the 2012 Buildmark policy document:

• 2012 Buildmark policy wording changes

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