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Changes to the Consumer Code for Home Builders in 2024

Written by Phil Thomas | Dec 14, 2023 4:24:54 PM

The new Consumer Code for Home Builders

The fifth edition of the Code makes protections for customers more powerful and closes some gaps that previously existed in the Code’s guidance.

If you’re building and selling a home that’s covered by LABC Warranty, and you’re adhering to the Code, this information will be relevant to you – and you may be subject to new expectations in how you interact with customers.

 

What’s new for 2024

The changes are nothing to be alarmed about – you may find that you’re already doing a lot of what the new recommendations suggest.

Some of the new changes include:

  • A 14-day cooling off period from date of reservation.
  • More detailed guidance for managing customer complaints.
  • An increase in the amount that can be claimed through Independent Dispute Resolution to £50,000.
  • A new requirement to enable home buyers to employ a third-party snagging service before home completion.

This is among other changes that focus on protecting customers, particularly those that may be vulnerable, laying out best practices for teams.

 

Don't miss the webinars 

To further ease the transition between 2023 and 2024, the Code will be running two webinars.

Webinar: "What's New?"

Date and time: Thursday 11 January 2024, 12:00 - 13:00.

Book your spot here

 

Webinar: "Train the Trainer"

Date and time: Monday 15 January 2024, 10:00 - 12:30.

Book your spot here

 

Code transition pack

If you do need a guiding hand on how to implement these changes, the Code has handily supplied a transition pack to guide you through the process.

Download the pack here.

The pack includes:

  • Links to updated documents.
  • Compliance checklists.
  • Training information.
  • An in-depth summary of the changes coming up.
  • Guidance for complaints management.
  • More resources.

 

More about the Code

The Consumer Code for Home Builders, of which LABC Warranty is a founding member, is a voluntary code for home builders that sets out the behaviours needed to ensure customers are treated fairly while buying a home.

It is one of two codes to which all LABC Warranty sites must adhere when constructing and selling a new-build home. The other is the New Homes Quality Code.

You can read more about the Consumer Code here. Or, if you have any questions about the Code, contact your LABC Warranty account manager