It is an offence for a builder to build a new home without being registered with the NHBRC, and the home must be enrolled before construction starts. Ask for both, in writing, before you pay a deposit. This is the single check that separates a recoverable dispute from an unrecoverable one.
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What the warranty actually covers
The cover on an enrolled home is time-limited and the periods differ by defect type. Missing a period is how homeowners end up paying for their own remedial work.
| Defect | Period from occupation |
|---|---|
| Workmanship not matching the agreement | 3 months |
| Roof leaks | 12 months |
| Major structural defects | 5 years |
Complain in writing to the builder first and keep the proof of delivery. The council’s process expects the builder to have been given the chance to fix it.
Before you sign
- Verify the registration number with the council directly, not from a certificate photographed on a phone.
- Confirm the home is enrolled, which is separate from the builder being registered. Both are required.
- Never pay a large upfront deposit against future materials. Stage payments tied to completed and inspected work are the norm.
- Renovations and alterations are not covered by the new-home warranty. Different protection applies.
George is on the 044 code. Registration and enrolment status should be confirmed with the council itself; details checked 25 August 2026.