NHBC
Building and consumer protection · New-home warranty provider and standards organisation
NHBC provides warranty and insurance products for new homes and publishes technical requirements for registered builders. It is not a general membership body for household repair contractors.
Checked Official sources below.
What it covers and whether it is required
Builder registration allows a business to apply to offer NHBC warranty products. A registered builder’s name does not prove a particular home has Buildmark cover, and the warranty is not the same thing as building control approval.
Joining requirements and costs
Builders apply for registration and are assessed under NHBC’s requirements. They must separately register relevant homes and comply with the conditions of the warranty product. Obtain NHBC’s current registration and inspection requirements for the proposed development.
Check the current fees with NHBC before applying. Ask whether the quotation includes application, assessment, renewal and any per-job charges. Use published fees or ask for a written quotation.
What it means for homeowners
Check the policy and property details, not just the builder’s registration. Buildmark generally has an initial builder warranty period followed by insurance for specified damage, subject to its terms. Different products and policy editions have different cover; read the documents for the actual home.
How to check a claim
Official member, card or certificate check: NHBC.
Match the record to the named person or contracting business. Check the current scope, not just a logo on a van or an old certificate. If the public record does not show the detail you need, ask the body to confirm it before appointing the business.
Where the scheme applies
NHBC serves the UK new-home market. Warranty products and building control services have their own territorial scope; confirm the product offered for the property.
Common questions
Does an NHBC-registered builder mean every job is covered by Buildmark?
No. Cover attaches to a specified home and policy. A repair, extension or other contract is not covered merely because the builder is registered.
How do I check NHBC status?
Use the official verification service linked in this guide. Match the person or legal business name, current status and relevant work category. For a guarantee, check the document issued for your contract as well.
Official sources
Sources checked November 2026. Scheme rules can change; confirm current requirements before applying or signing a contract.