Structual Gurantee

stumpy · Apr 28, 2007 8:36 pm

Hello

Are structural gurantees really worth anything?

For example, the fact that m3tric0n homes have a 25 yr structural gurantee compared to PD's 6 years, play a deciding factor for you guys when you're choosing homes?

Thanks

Stumpy

mattwalker · Apr 28, 2007 9:35 pm

Personally .... No!

All new houses in Victoria come with a 6 year 6 month guarantee as standard. Based on this all builders are equal and therefore should be chosen on other merits....

Personally, I think that sounds like "hype" and the "get out" clauses and the "thats not covered" notes would be too extensive to make it worthwhile.

Would you buy a Hyundai over a Honda for the same money just because the Hyundai had a five year warranty and the Honda a three??

Matt

Ed Perry · Apr 29, 2007 8:04 am

Not worth the paper it's written on...

In Vic., the 6 year builders guarantee is underwritten by law.

Refer http://www.hgcf.vmia.vic.gov.au/

Quote:

On 1st February, 2006, HGF was merged into VMIA and the Builders Warranty Program (BWP) was commenced.

In general, BWI provides mandatory protection for homeowners where:

Your contracted builder fails to complete the construction of your new house or an extension or renovation to your existing property.
For a period of 6 years after completion, you are protected against the cost of defects occurring in the job if the defects are caused by the builder’s workmanship.

Who says they will be around in 25years? Any guarantee beyond this has no substance unless it is underwritten.

Then there are the suppliers, suppliers guarantees cover the 6 year period - what happens after that?

I know a window supplier that has a lifetime guarantee - now what does that mean?

EP