Your Essential Guide to Builder’s Warranties with Homes by Westgate

Your Essential Guide to Builder’s Warranties with Homes by Westgate

Building your dream home is an exciting journey, and at Homes by Westgate, we’re here to make sure you’re fully equipped with the knowledge you need to safeguard your investment. One key resource for custom homebuyers in British Columbia (BC) is the builder’s warranty. In BC, builder’s warranties are regulated under the Homeowner Protection Act, ensuring that your investment is protected by law.

Let’s explore what you need to know about builder’s warranties in BC and how to navigate this essential aspect of your custom homebuilding process.

What Is a Builder’s Warranty?

A builder’s warranty is an agreement between you and your builder, outlining the promise to repair or replace specific parts of the home if necessary within a designated period. In BC, these warranties are mandatory and must comply with the 2-5-10 Warranty Program, which includes:

• 2 Years: Coverage on materials and labour for major systems, such as plumbing, electrical, and HVAC.
• 5 Years: Coverage on the building envelope, including water penetration issues.
• 10 Years: Coverage on major structural defects.

This warranty is an essential part of your homebuilding contract and ensures peace of mind for homeowners in BC.

Types of Builder’s Warranties in BC

In BC, builder’s warranties are standardized under provincial law, providing consistency and protection across all new home construction. However, builders can offer additional express warranties to enhance the mandatory coverage.

Mandatory 2-5-10 Warranty

Under BC’s Homeowner Protection Act, every new home must be covered by a 2-5-10 warranty provided by a licensed residential builder. This program ensures:

• Materials and Labour (2 Years): Protects against defects in materials and labour related to major systems and other components.
• Building Envelope (5 Years): Covers issues such as water penetration through the exterior walls, windows, and roof.
• Structural Defects (10 Years): Covers structural elements critical to the integrity of the home.

Additional Express Warranties

Beyond the mandatory program, some builders may offer express warranties tailored to specific aspects of the home. These warranties are negotiable and must be agreed upon before construction begins. Be sure to clarify the terms and conditions of any additional coverage.

Coverage and Exclusions

While the 2-5-10 warranty provides comprehensive protection, it’s essential to understand what is and isn’t covered:

What’s Covered

• Workmanship and Materials: For two years, this includes items like electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems.
• Building Envelope: Five years of protection against water ingress issues.
• Structural Defects: Ten years of coverage for major structural components such as foundations and load-bearing walls.

What’s Not Covered

• Normal wear and tear or defects arising from improper maintenance.
• Household appliances, which are typically covered by manufacturer warranties.
• Landscaping or any damage caused by external factors, such as natural disasters.

Always review your warranty documentation carefully and ask your builder to explain any exclusions.

Why You Need a Builder’s Warranty

A builder’s warranty is not just a legal requirement in BC—it’s your safety net, protecting your home from unforeseen issues. It ensures accountability from your builder and provides financial protection for repairs or replacements during the covered periods.

At Homes by Westgate, we are proud to comply with BC’s stringent warranty requirements and offer additional assurances to meet your unique needs.

Questions to Ask Your Builder

Before signing your contract, make sure you ask these important questions:

• What’s Covered and What’s Not?Clarify exclusions and understand the terms of both mandatory and additional warranties.
• What Is the Claims Process?Learn how to file a warranty claim and what documentation is required.
• Can I Speak with Past Clients?Request references to verify the builder’s track record with warranty work, including responsiveness and quality of repairs.
• How Are Disputes Resolved?Ensure the warranty includes clear processes for resolving disputes, such as mediation or arbitration.

Ready to Build Your Dream Home?

Your custom home is a significant investment, and at Homes by Westgate, we’re dedicated to ensuring it’s a secure and rewarding one. Contact us today to start your journey and learn more about how our comprehensive builder’s warranty supports your vision for a lifetime of comfort and quality.