Consumer Code for Home Builders

The new Consumer Code for Home Builders will become active for purchasers of new homes on or after 1 April 2010. However, LABC members need to become familiar with the code before it goes live. LABC New Home Warranty is signed up to promote and use the code.

It clarifies the responsibilities and actions required by developers and warranty providers to improve service and complaint resolution to customers of new homes. It is the result of the Barker Review in 2004 and the Office of Fair Trading Study in 2008.

Details of the enhancements to consumer protection are detailed on this website: www.newhomesconsumercode.com.

Philip Hammond, LABC's National Business Development Director, welcomes the new Code. "For years purchasers of new homes have been unclear about their rights and in some cases they have been unfairly treated. Local authorities have always been keen to improve house building quality and to ensure that those who purchase homes have their dreams fulfilled. This is why LABC offers the LABC New Home Warranty as a whole package alongside our building control service. There are many high quality builders and the vast majority of customers have a good experience. However, this new code will ensure that everyone has protection and can get clear information on their rights. We are very pleased to support this and will work hard with our LABC New Home Warranty team to promote this to customers."

For further information

• Contact: Building Control
• Address: Eden District Council, Mansion House, Penrith, Cumbria CA11 7YG
• Email: building.control@eden.gov.uk
• Telephone: 01768 817817
• Fax: 01768 212320