When you buy a new build home in the UK, it almost always comes with either an NHBC Buildmark or a Premier Guarantee warranty. Both offer 10-year structural protection, but they're not identical, and understanding the differences can help you know exactly what you're covered for and what to do when something goes wrong.
This guide gives a general comparison of the two warranties. Always refer to your own policy documents and contact your warranty provider directly for the specific terms that apply to your home.
At a glance: the key differences
| Feature | NHBC Buildmark | Premier Guarantee |
|---|---|---|
| Market share | Majority of UK new builds | Smaller share of UK new builds |
| Duration | 10 years | 10 years |
| Builder period | Years 1–2 | Years 1–2 |
| Insurer period | Years 3–10 (NHBC) | Years 3–10 (Premier) |
| Deposit protection | Up to £100,000 or 10% | Up to £100,000 |
| Dispute resolution (years 1–2) | NHBC Resolution Service (free) | Premier Guarantee Resolution (free) |
| Transferable to new owner? | Yes | Yes |
| Lender accepted | All major UK lenders | All major UK lenders |
How NHBC Buildmark works
The NHBC Buildmark is the most widely recognised new build warranty in the UK, covering the majority of new homes. It's backed by the National House Building Council, a not-for-profit organisation that also sets the technical standards builders must meet.
During years one and two, defects are the builder's responsibility. The NHBC acts as a mediator if disputes arise. From year three, the NHBC directly covers structural defects under its insurance policy.
- Free Resolution Service in years 1–2 if builder disputes arise
- Claims hotline and online portal for year 3+ structural claims
- Widely known and trusted by solicitors, lenders, and buyers
- Technical standards are publicly available and regularly updated
How Premier Guarantee works
Premier Guarantee is operated by MD Insurance Services and is the second most common new build warranty in the UK. It's used more frequently by smaller and regional developers who aren't registered with the NHBC.
The structure is very similar to Buildmark: two years of builder liability followed by eight years of insurance-backed structural cover. Premier Guarantee is fully accepted by UK mortgage lenders and offers equivalent deposit protection.
- Accepted by all major UK mortgage lenders
- Free Resolution Service for years 1–2 builder disputes
- Structural cover from year 3 backed by MD Insurance
- Less widely known, but legally equivalent protection
Both warranties are transferable when you sell your home. The remaining cover passes to the new buyer, which can be a useful selling point, especially if the property is still within the first few years of cover.
Which is better for buyers?
From a pure protection standpoint, both warranties offer the same core coverage: 10 years of structural protection, deposit cover, and access to a free resolution service. For most homeowners, the day-to-day experience of either warranty will be very similar.
The main practical difference is recognition. The NHBC brand is more widely understood by lenders, solicitors, and future buyers, which can mean smoother transactions when remortgaging or selling. Premier Guarantee is a completely valid alternative, but you may occasionally need to explain what it is to people unfamiliar with it.
What both warranties don't cover
- Normal wear and tear, shrinkage, and minor settlement
- Damage caused by you, your tenants, or third parties
- Issues caused by failure to maintain the property correctly
- Defects you accepted at purchase or knew about before completion
- Consequential losses (e.g. alternative accommodation costs, in most cases)
What to do if your builder disputes a claim
If your builder refuses to fix a defect during years one and two, contact either NHBC or Premier Guarantee directly. Don't just accept the developer's position. Both organisations have free resolution services specifically designed for this situation, and they can intervene to ensure your developer meets their obligations.
Final thoughts
Whether your home comes with NHBC Buildmark or Premier Guarantee, the most important thing is that you understand what you're covered for and use it. Both warranties require you to report defects in writing to your builder within the two-year period. Get snagging early, document everything, and don't wait.
Track defects, generate reports and stay on top of everything in one place with SnagNote.
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Warranty terms, rights, and timelines vary by provider and individual circumstances. Always refer to your own policy documents and seek independent advice if you are unsure about your specific situation.
