What type of warranty typically covers structural defects in a new home?

A statutory warranty is designed to address specific legal requirements and is often mandated by state law to protect homeowners against structural defects in new homes. This type of warranty typically covers major structural components such as the foundation, framing, and roofing, ensuring that the homeowner has recourse in the event that these critical areas of the home are found to be defective within a certain timeframe.

Statutory warranties vary by state, but they usually provide coverage for a specified period, which can last several years. Because they are established by law, they offer a standardized level of protection that exists independently of any agreement between the builder and homeowner.

Other options may not provide the same level of comprehensive coverage for structural issues. For example, a full warranty is broad in nature but may not specifically target structural defects, while a limited warranty offers restricted coverage, often excluding major systems. An express warranty is based on explicit statements by the builder but varies widely in terms of what is covered. Statutory warranties, on the other hand, clearly outline the protections required by law for new constructions, thereby making them the best fit for covering structural defects.