In the early days of your occupation of your new home, your property will need to 'dry out' and there will be some shrinkage resulting in slight cracking. This is absolutely normal and can be rectified during redecorations.
Similarly where hand applied finishes such as plaster or brickwork have been used, there will be variations in the finish. These are not defects.

Should there be any faults that arise within the first two years as a result of defective workmanship or
materials, they will be covered by the St James Homes' warranty, underwritten by the National House Building Council, and by St James Homes. In addition, a free emergency service is available 24hrs a day, 365 days a year for the first two years after the original legal completion.


Appliance manufacturers warranty:

Items such as electrical & kitchen appliances all carry a manufacturer's warranty and, shortly after moving in (property owners at original completion stage), you will need to complete & return them to the manufacturers. Such warranties
are for a period of one year and offer an option to extend for a further period. Should these items prove defective, you
will need to contact the manufacturer's service department direct.

Neff & Bosch Appliance Care: 0870 567 8910

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The NHBC warranty:

When you move into your new home, you will be provided with an independent 10 year warranty which is provided by the National House Building Council, an independent body established to regulate the new homes industry. As a non-profit making organisation, the NHBC aims to ensure that all house builders construct good quality
new homes, which meet the reasonable expectations of homebuyers.

The NHBC registers house builders, sets standards of construction, inspects homes and, promotes better building practices. In addition, the NHBC provides a structural warranty on new homes called the Buildmark. This warranty is an insurance policy protecting you against specified risks, which could be expensive to rectify. It does not cover general wear & tear, condensation, normal shrinkage or damage arising from failure to maintain your new home.


The NHBC warranty is divided into three parts and the Buildmark is issued only when the NHBC inspector is satisfied,
as far as possible, that your new home has been constructed in accordance with NHBC standards. The warranty runs
from the day your new home is 'signed off' by the NHBC inspector rather than from your move in day.

Contact number: 0844 633 1000

Items that are covered by the NHBC warranty include:

Major damage caused by a defect in the load bearing structure of your home or by settlement of subsidence that affects the structure.
Damage caused by a defect to roof tiles & slates, external wall rendering & tile hanging, floor decking & screeds (after the first £500 of such damage).
Defects in below ground drainage.
Defective chimneys and flues causing a danger to the health & safety of the occupants.