Doors, windows and glazing are some of the most visible and most-used parts of any new build home. NHBC Standards Chapter 6.7 sets out what builders should be doing to get them right. This guide walks through each section in plain language, so you know what to expect.

Before any new build is constructed, the ground beneath it should be properly assessed for hazards, contamination and stability. This buyer’s guide walks through NHBC Chapter 4.1 section by section, explaining what your developer should have done, what evidence should exist on file, and where a snagging inspection fits into the wider picture of new home assurance.

If your new build home includes a solar thermal hot water system, NHBC Standards Chapter 8.5 sets out how it should be designed, installed and handed over to you. This guide explains each sub-chapter in plain English, covering compliance, system design, weatherproofing, fixings, electrical safety, handover documentation and more, so you know what to expect from your developer and where a snagging inspection can help.

NHBC Standards Chapter 3.3 sets out how the timber in your new build home should be protected against fungal decay and insect attack. From floor joists to external cladding, different components face very different demands. This guide walks through each section of the 2026 chapter in plain language, helping you understand what should have been considered during the construction of your home.

Chapter 8.1 of the NHBC Standards 2026 sets out the technical requirements for internal services in new build homes, including water supply, gas installations, electrics, hot water systems, and drainage. This guide explains each section in plain terms, helping you understand what to expect from your new home and what to look out for.

The NHBC Standards 2026, Chapter 9.3, sets out the technical requirements builders must follow when installing floor finishes in new build homes. This guide explains each section in plain terms, covering screeds, ceramic and wood flooring, flexible sheet finishes, staircase finishes, and more, so you know what standards your new home should meet.

The NHBC Standards set out detailed requirements for vibratory ground improvement, the process used to strengthen weak or filled ground before your new build home is constructed. This guide walks through each section of Chapter 4.5 and explains what it means for you as a homebuyer, from site investigations and suitable ground conditions to testing and verification of completed work.

The NHBC Standards set clear requirements for the quality of painting and decorating in new build homes, covering everything from timber preparation and wall finishes to the standard of completed paintwork at handover. Understanding these standards can help you identify potential defects and ensure your developer delivers the finish you expect.

Understanding the NHBC Standards for drives, paths and landscaping helps new build buyers know what to expect from their developer. This guide explains the 2026 requirements for everything from driveway construction and drainage to garden preparation and external decking.

Understanding the NHBC Standards for wall and ceiling finishes can help you identify potential defects in your new build home. Learn what builders must deliver and what to look for when inspecting plastering, dry lining, and ceramic tiling.