The NHQB (New Homes Quality Board) is an independent body that oversees the build quality of new homes, and the customer service provided by housing developers.
The new homes quality board is a non profit independent organisation that embraces the responsibility for developing a new framework to oversee the build quality and improvement of customer services provided by developers of new build homes.
The board’s framework objectives are to deliver consistently high standards of new home quality and service whilst implementing a better complaints handling and redress for purchasers of new build homes where current high standards are not achieved.
The benefits of the NHQB
Protection
The Code imposes restrictions on developers, including prohibiting high-pressure selling and requiring them to protect any deposits paid by the purchaser. Additionally, the Code establishes a fair reservation agreement that encompasses a cooling-off period and specific sales contract requirements.
Pre-completion Inspections
Under the Code, customers are allowed to appoint an accredited professional to conduct a pre-completion inspection of their new home on their behalf. The Code also specifies that a home must be considered ‘complete’, which prevents customers from moving into a new home prematurely.
Property Information
Requires the developer to provide all the relevant information about their new home during the sales process to allow them to make an informed decision about their new purchase. Relevant information would include Future management and service charges, house plans and drainage layouts.
How does the NHQB help consumers?
As a consumer, the NHQB helps you by pushing for enhanced quality of new build homes. NHQB is an independent organisation that provides you with all of the information you need around service standards. If you need further help with a complaint to a housing developer then they will be able to help with a referral to the NHOS (New Homes Ombudsman Service).
How does the NHQB benefit developers?
The New Homes Quality Code offers enhanced protections for buyers of new homes, and as a result it makes properties more marketable and attractive to prospective buyers. It also helps to support businesses in raising their own standards.
Find out more here.
