Joint head of residential conveyancing, Sarah Cookson, appeared on BBC Look North yesterday, offering practical guidance for people considering the purchase of a new build home and addressing common concerns around quality, warranties and buyer protection.

Speaking after the programme, Sarah welcomed the focus of the discussion, saying:

“What was really encouraging about the conversation was that it centred on purchasers and their concerns, rather than automatically focusing on developers and the delivery of a new site. Buying a new build home is a huge decision, and it’s important that buyers feel informed, protected and confident about the questions they should be asking.”

Buying a new home is often the largest investment a person will make, and as with any major purchase, viewers were advised to research both the property and the builder carefully. Key questions prospective buyers should ask include: Who is the builder? Are they reputable? and does the contract require the home to be built in a good and workmanlike manner, in accordance with planning permission and building regulations?

A crucial consideration is whether the development comes with an insurance-backed new build warranty, or at the very least a professional consultant’s certificate, usually provided by an architect. Buyers were also encouraged to check whether the housebuilder subscribes to the New Homes Quality Code, which offers important protections, including the ability to commission a professional snagging survey before completion, the requirement for a formal complaints process, and oversight from the New Homes Ombudsman.

Other practical points raised included confirming whether roads and sewers will be adopted by the local authority, and ensuring the builder provides clear information at the outset about how snagging and post-completion issues will be addressed. Looking beyond the sales brochure is also valuable – viewers were advised to check online reviews such as NHBC star ratings, and to engage with Facebook groups run by existing residents for real-world feedback on developments.

When asked whether there has been a rise in buyers encountering problems, Sarah explained that there is no clear evidence of an increase in post-completion issues. Homes are built by people rather than production lines, and some snagging is normal. What matters most is how effectively and promptly those issues are resolved once reported.

The programme also explored what happens if a developer goes out of business before defects are dealt with. In those circumstances, an insurance-backed home warranty provides vital protection. Providers such as NHBC, LABC and Premier Guarantee typically offer cover for up to ten years. During the first two years, issues are generally dealt with directly by the developer, with the warranty provider stepping in if the developer refuses or is no longer trading. From years three to ten, the warranty usually covers structural defects only.

In summary, Sarah’s key message to buyers was clear: research the builder, check reviews, understand what warranty or guarantee is being offered, ask what protection exists if there isn’t one, and speak to your solicitor before committing.

Watch the episode here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m002v4x3/look-north-yorkshire-evening-news-14042026

(Available until 7pm on 15 April)

If you would like advice on your purchase, or have questions about the exchange process, our team will be happy to help.