EXTERIOR
Is the problem ...
DRIVEWAY ?
Guidance:
If any area greater than 1m square has dropped by more than 2cm report it as a defect - all you need do in the description box is quote the code DPPOD and state:
* Driveway
(nothing else, no explanation, just this). Please be advised this will not be deemed a defect if the cause of the problem is a vehicle of unsuitably large weight e.g. large van or lorry.
or ...
FENCE ?
Guidance:
Fences and temporary exterior constructions are not covered by your warranty.
or ...
GARDEN ?
Guidance:
Gardens will take a while to settle and turfed areas require maintenance to ensure a good appearance.
or ...
GARAGE ?
Guidance:
Unless your garage is integral to your home, it is not considered to be residential space that is covered by your warranty. However, if an integral door becomes defective causing a security risk to the property, report it as a defect - all you need do in the description box is quote the code DWS and state:
* Integral garage door
(nothing else, no explanation, just this).
or ...
GUTTERS AND DOWNPIPES ?
Guidance:
If any of your gutter or downpipe joints are leaking report it as a defect - all you need do in the description box is quote the code LRWG and state:
* Gutter or downpipe
* Front or rear or side of property
(nothing else, no explanation, just this), otherwise it is important that you take care to avoid blockages in the gutters from leaves by using a gutter-guard.
or ...
PATIO AND PAVING?
Guidance:
If any area greater than 1m square has dropped significantly report it as a defect - all you need do in the description box is quote the code DPPOD and state:
* Path or patio
(nothing else, no explanation, just this).
or ...
PLUMBING?
Guidance:
If your outside tap fails to work, check first to see if there is a shut-off valve inside your property preventing the supply of water. Otherwise, report it as a defect - all you need do in the description box is quote the code OTWW (nothing else, no explanation, just this code).
or ...
ROOF ?
Guidance:
Roof damage as a consequence of bad weather, e.g., slipped or missing tiles, dislodged ridge tiles etc. is not covered by your warranty. Otherwise, if you have a leak report it as a defect - all you need do in the description box is quote the code RTP and state:
* Leak or slipped tile
* Front or rear or side of property
(nothing else, no explanation, just this code).
or ...
SHED?
Guidance:
Temporary exterior constructions are not covered by your warranty.
or ...
WALLS ?
Guidance:
If you discover white material accumulating on your exterior brick walls, this is quite common (efflorescence) and can be removed with a soft brush. Minor cracks to the mortar are generally a sign of natural settlement and nothing to worry about. However, if you are able to fit the edge of a pound coin into the crack, report it as a defect - all you need do in the description box is quote the code OWSC and state:
* Is this above head height
* Front or rear or side of property
(nothing else, no explanation, just this
SELF-DIAGNOSIS
Useful checklist
If you have just moved in, here are some important reminders:
APPLIANCE WARRANTIES
Don't forget to complete all of the warranty cards for your fitted electrical appliances. Keep a copy and send them off to the manufacturer. Should you ever need to report a fault, you know they will have proof of your cover.
BOILER SERVICE
Make a note in your diary to book a service in 12 months time. Failure to maintain annual services could invalidate your warranty cover.
WATER AND GAS SHUT-OFF VALVE
Make sure you (and other responsible members of the household) know where to find the shut-off valves for water supply and (if applicable) gas.
METER READINGS
Make a note of your meter readings for your electricity supply, water and gas (if applicable). Keep it somewhere safe.
HOW TO ...
There are various 'maintenance' tasks you will need to perform around your home, from time-to-time. Take a look at our 'How To' videos.