Skip to Content

New Homes Ombudsman: Protecting Buyers of New-Build Properties.

The UK government has launched a New Homes Ombudsman to improve standards and resolve disputes in the new-build housing sector.

Buying a new-build home should be exciting—but for many, it’s been marred by poor workmanship, delays, and unresolved complaints. In response, the government has introduced the New Homes Ombudsman Service (NHOS), part of a broader push to raise standards and protect consumer rights.

The Ombudsman is independent and free to use. It covers:

- Complaints about new-build homes purchased from registered developers.

- Issues such as structural defects, misleading marketing, and poor customer service.

- Disputes arising within two years of legal completion.

Developers must now comply with the New Homes Quality Code, which sets out clear rules for sales, aftercare, and complaint handling. The Ombudsman can:

- Investigate complaints and issue binding decisions.

- Require developers to pay compensation or carry out remedial work.

- Publish decisions to improve transparency and accountability.

Why It Matters: The scheme aims to restore trust in the new-build sector and ensure buyers have access to fair redress. It complements existing protections under consumer law and builds on lessons from past failures.

Disclaimer: Solicitors.com is not a firm of solicitors. Content on this site is not legal advice and should not replace consultation with a regulated solicitor. We strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information; however, no content is guaranteed to be completely accurate. Using this site does not establish a client relationship.

Feedback: Is there anything incorrect or missing on this page? Amendments may be accredited—please email us.

New Homes Ombudsman: Protecting Buyers of New-Build Properties.
Image Description
related news
recent articles
Flying Freehold

What is a Flying Freehold and should it matter?..

link

Conveyancing | The Contracts.

Whilst most people hate the paperwork side of things it is important to go through the contract with your conveyancing solicitor...

Will property conveyancing change.

The Government push to improve conveyancing...

The legal rights of unmarried couples.

The legal rights of unmarried couples, regarding property. - In the event of the breakup of a relationship where the couple are not married what happens to the..

Government to introduce New Homes Ombudsman

The government announces a New Homes Ombudsman to protect consume..

link

Lifetime Mortgage.

Mortgages for life, may soon be an option...

Selling a house, what do I need to declare?

As part of selling a house or flat in England and Wales you must make sure anyone buying is aware of problems with the property...

Help to buy ISAs

Help to buy ISAs - The new, 'Help to buy', ISA is designed to help first time buyers save for a deposit for their first home, with the inducement of an extra 25..

Selling a house, what do I need to declare?

As part of selling a house or flat in England and Wales you must..

link

Government to introduce New Homes Ombudsman

The government announces a New Homes Ombudsman to protect consumer right...

Understand Conveyancing Quotes

When you look for a conveyancing solicitor to act for you we recommend that you contact a few to compare price, obviously price is not the only factor you look..

Property Surveys.

Understand the different Survey options available to you if you are buying a property...

Image Description
Is there anything wrong with this page? - any amendments will receive accreditation - email us

Solicitors.com are not a firm of solicitors, and any content on the site should not be used in substitute for obtaining Legal advice from a solicitor regulated in the UK, Solicitors.com recommends that you contact a firm of solicitors to discuss your individual legal requirement. Whilst we strive to bring you accurate up to date content, all content on this site is not legal advice and is not guaranteed to be correct. Use of this site does not create a client relationship.

Information by area of law
Back to top