NHBC standards

NHBC standards are the technical standards published by the National House Building Council for new-build housing in the UK and form the basis of the NHBC Buildmark warranty offered to new home purchasers. The standards address structure, weatherproofing, services and drainage, working alongside the Building Regulations 2010 and Approved Document H. They are widely applied across new-build sites in Greater London, where many speculative developers register with NHBC for the warranty product. Practical implications for purchasers of new homes include the ability to claim under the Buildmark warranty for defects in drainage and other works during the warranty period, subject to the standards in force at the time of construction. The formal reference is the NHBC Standards, updated periodically, with relevant chapters covering above and below ground drainage installation. Alternative warranty providers publish similar technical requirements.