Photo: roof leak slowly destroying wooden soffit.
Now that I’ve got your attention, I’m here to remind new homeowners in British Columbia that after living in their new home for 5 years, they are coming up to the expiry date of their building envelope warranty. I’m sure there are similar new home warranties in the United States.
If the homeowner is still in love with their castle then they will be on top of it. However the majority of owners do not even remember that they have a warranty.
What’s Covered Here in BC, the building envelope warranty is good for 5 years. When I do this inspection I’m looking for both defects and actual evidence of unintended water penetration resulting in material damage.
When to Inspect Obviously before the 5 year anniversary date and at least 6 weeks before expiry to allow for claim processing.
Sad & Sorry Most home owners forget altogether about this warranty, which they have paid for in the purchase price and it lapses unchecked and unclaimed.
Do Not Wait There’s no reason to wait 5 years. If you identify a defect within the warranty period, then submit a claim against it. Otherwise you risk allowing the damage to increase.
2 for 1 Deal In BC, the new home warranty also covers structural defects for 10 years. So when I’m called in to do the 5 year inspection, I also inspect the structure at the same time.
Don’t let the warranty lapse. Get a professional inspection. If there is a legitimate claim, the repairs are made at “no charge”. Image that!
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