Reservation and instruction
01File opened the same day; searches ordered immediately.
New build purchases
New build contracts are drafted by the developer, for the developer, and come with an exchange deadline measured in days. Speed is not the same as haste.
Exchange deadline
Often 21–28 days from reservation
Warranty
NHBC, LABC, Premier or equivalent
Completion
On notice, once the plot is built
Watch for
Estate rentcharges and management fees
01New build
The reservation deadline
Developers typically require exchange within twenty-one to twenty-eight days of reservation and will threaten to release the plot and retain the reservation fee if you miss it. That timetable is achievable, but only if searches are ordered the same day and your mortgage application is already progressing.
We tell you at the outset what we need from you and when. Where the deadline is genuinely unachievable because of a lender delay, we negotiate an extension in writing rather than letting the date drift.
02New build
What is different about the contract
New build contracts are non-standard. We check the long-stop date beyond which you can walk away if the plot is not finished, whether completion is on notice and how much notice you get, what happens to your deposit if the developer becomes insolvent, the specification and whether it can be varied, and the extent of the plot against the estate layout plan.
We also review the estate management arrangements. Many new estates are managed by a private company funded by an estate rentcharge, which is a permanent annual cost with limited leaseholder-style protections. You should know that figure before you exchange, not after you move in.
- Long-stop date and your right to rescind
- Notice to complete period and mortgage offer expiry
- Deposit protection and warranty provider cover
- Estate rentcharge, management company and adoption of roads and sewers
03New build
Warranty and snagging
The structural warranty — NHBC, LABC, Premier or similar — typically gives two years of developer liability for defects and eight further years of structural cover. We confirm the cover is in place and explain what it does and does not include. Snagging is a practical matter for you and the site manager, but we will tell you where the contract gives you leverage.
STEPSHow the matter runs
Every new build file follows the same sequence.
Contract pack reviewed
02Plot documents, plans, specification, warranty and management arrangements examined.
Enquiries and mortgage
03Developer enquiries raised while the mortgage offer is progressed.
Exchange within deadline
04Report issued and contracts exchanged inside the developer's timetable.
Completion on notice
05Plot completed, notice served, funds drawn and completion within the notice period.
Questions we are asked most
It is common on long build programmes. Offers usually last three to six months, so a re-offer or extension may be needed. We monitor the expiry date and warn you and your broker in good time.
Property law, handled properly.
Need help with new build?
Send us the basic details and we will come back with a written quotation, the likely timescale and the name of the solicitor who will handle it.