25 Important FAQ’s – Questions and Answers For You

The most common questions and answers from the NHBRC

The NHBRC has a page with several questions that we also get on this website. The most common questions and answers we have listed are below with thanks to the NHBRC.  We must point out to all homeowners and potential homeowners, as well as all contractors and home builders, that the new home being built must, by law, be registered with the NHBRC.

The builder or contractor also has to be registered with the NHBRC. The NHBRC will not consider a claim or complaint if this is not done. If the house or contractor has not been registered then they have broken the law and might be liable to a fine. There are links to the NHBRC site at the end of the Q&A where you will find more questions and answers.

The NHBRC provides a compilation of common queries along with their questions and answers. We have summarized the key inquiries and responses from the NHBRC below. Both homeowners and contractors need to understand that, as per legal requirements, any new home construction must be registered with the NHBRC, and the builder or contractor involved must also hold NHBRC registration. Failure to comply may result in legal consequences, including potential fines. Additional information and questions and answers can be found on the NHBRC website through the provided links at the end of the FAQs.

Q – How Does One Know Whether A Builder Is Registered With The NHBRC?

A – The NHBRC has established customer centers in all provinces. To find out if a builder is registered with the NHBRC you can contact your nearest customer center, search online or by calling the toll-free number 0800200824.

Q – Does The NHBRC Conduct Inspections?

A – Every new house constructed must be inspected. If the house is enrolled prior to construction, the NHBRC is afforded the opportunity to carry out all necessary inspections. The number of inspections conducted per house is a function of the size and the complexity of the design of the house.

Q – What Does The NHBRC Inspect?

A – The following inspections are carried out:

Foundations – Roof height – Practical completion – Stormwater – Carpentry – Plumbing – Electrical and waterproofing

Q – How Many Inspections Are Carried Out By The NHBRC In The Building Process Up To Completion Of A House?

A – A minimum of four inspections are carried out to ensure that the house is of good quality and that it will be fit for habitation. Housing consumers and home builders are encouraged to demand an inspection from the NHBRC during construction.

Q – How Does The NHBRC Handle Complaints?

A – The NHBRC has established complaint-handling mechanisms, which have assisted many housing consumers. Each complaint is professionally and speedily processed on behalf of the housing consumer. According to our records, the NHBRC has not failed any housing consumer who had a genuine structural defect. All homeowners, public and private institutions, and media houses are advised to send all the complaints received by it to the NHBRC for evaluation.

Q – What Should a Home Owner Do When There Is a Problem with a Builder’s Work?

A – The housing consumer (homeowner) should contact the home builder within three to seven days. The housing consumer can approach the NHBRC if the home builder fails to attend to the problem.

Q – Under What Circumstances Will The NHBRC Do Remedial Work To My House?

A – The NHBRC is responsible for the repair of major structural defects that occur to an enrolled home.  The process is initiated once it is established that the home builder is either liquidated, unwilling, or is unable to undertake remedial works. When the homebuilder disputes the findings and recommendations in the conciliation report or the recommendation of a competent person (Engineer), the NHBRC will assist the housing consumer by undertaking remedial work.

Q – What Happens If Major Structural Defects Arise Within The First Five Years Of Occupation?

A – The NHBRC’s fund for rectification covers a home which includes:

Private drainage system from the structure up to the municipal connection or the cesspit connection

Any garage or storeroom

Any permanent outbuilding designed for residential purposes

Any retaining wall

In the case of a sectional title unit, it includes the common property in terms of the Sectional Titles Act.

Q – Does the NHBRC perform inspections?

A – All new constructions must undergo inspections. Enrolled houses allow the NHBRC to conduct necessary inspections. The frequency of inspections depends on the size and complexity of the house design.

Q – What aspects does the NHBRC inspect?

A – Inspections cover various components including foundations, roof height, practical completion, stormwater systems, carpentry, plumbing, electrical wiring, and waterproofing.

Q – How many inspections does the NHBRC conduct during the building process until completion?

A – At least four inspections are carried out to ensure the quality and habitability of the house. Consumers and builders are encouraged to request NHBRC inspections during construction.

Q – How does the NHBRC manage complaints?

A – The NHBRC has established mechanisms for handling complaints, ensuring prompt and professional processing. They have a track record of addressing genuine structural defect complaints. All complaints should be directed to the NHBRC for evaluation.

Q – What should homeowners do if they encounter issues with a builder’s work?

A – Homeowners should contact the builder within three to seven days. If the builder fails to address the problem, homeowners can approach the NHBRC for assistance.

Q – Under what circumstances will the NHBRC undertake remedial work?

A – The NHBRC is responsible for repairing major structural defects in enrolled homes when the builder is unable or unwilling to do so. Remedial work may also be initiated if the builder disputes the findings.

Q – What happens if major structural defects arise within the first five years of occupation?

A – The NHBRC’s rectification fund covers various components of the home including private drainage systems, garages, permanent outbuildings, and retaining walls. This coverage extends to sectional title units as well.

Q – Is it mandatory for all home builders and contractors to register with the NHBRC?

A – Yes, according to the law, both homebuilders and contractors must be registered with the NHBRC for any new home construction.

Q – What are the benefits of registering with the NHBRC as a homebuilder or contractor?

A – Registration with the NHBRC demonstrates compliance with industry standards and enhances credibility. It also provides access to various resources and support services offered by the NHBRC.

Q – Can homeowners register complaints directly with the NHBRC?

A – Yes, homeowners can lodge complaints directly with the NHBRC regarding issues related to their homes or the conduct of builders or contractors.

Q – Is there a time limit for registering a new home with the NHBRC?

A – Yes, new homes must be registered with the NHBRC within a specific timeframe determined by relevant regulations.

Q – How can homeowners verify the registration status of their newly constructed homes with the NHBRC?

A – Homeowners can verify the registration status of their homes by contacting the NHBRC or accessing their online registration database.

Q – What types of assistance does the NHBRC provide to homeowners during the construction process?

A – The NHBRC offers guidance and support to homeowners throughout the construction process, including assistance with understanding building standards and resolving disputes.

Q – Are there any penalties for builders or contractors who fail to comply with NHBRC regulations?

A – Yes, builders or contractors who fail to comply with NHBRC regulations may face penalties, including fines and restrictions on future construction projects.

Q – Does the NHBRC provide training or certification programs for builders and contractors?

A – Yes, the NHBRC offers training and certification programs to ensure that builders and contractors meet industry standards and best practices.

Q – Can homeowners request re-inspections by the NHBRC if they have concerns about the quality of construction?

A – Yes, homeowners have the right to request re-inspections by the NHBRC if they have legitimate concerns about the quality of construction or compliance with building standards.

Q – How does the NHBRC collaborate with other regulatory agencies in the construction industry?

A – The NHBRC collaborates with various regulatory agencies in the construction industry to promote compliance with building standards and regulations and to ensure the quality and safety of construction projects.

Questions and Answers