Buying a new home in Calgary is a big milestone. New paint. New floors. No repairs yet. But even new homes can have problems. Some issues show up weeks later. Others take years.

That is why the Alberta New Home Warranty Program exists.

This overview explains the program in clear, simple words. No legal talk. No promotion. Just the basics every buyer should understand.

What Is the Alberta New Home Warranty Program?

The Alberta New Home Warranty Program is a mandatory protection plan for most new homes built in Alberta. In Calgary, builders must provide this warranty before selling a new home.

The purpose is simple.
If your new home has construction-related problems, the warranty helps cover repairs.

It is designed to protect buyers from costly defects caused by poor workmanship or materials.

Why the Program Matters in Calgary

Calgary’s climate can be hard on homes. Long winters. Freeze and thaw cycles. Heavy snow. Strong winds.

These conditions can expose building problems fast. The Alberta New Home warranty helps homeowners deal with these issues without paying out of pocket for major repairs.

For many buyers, this warranty is their main safety net.

Is the Warranty Required in Calgary?

Yes, in most cases.

The warranty is required for:

• Single-family homes

• Duplexes

• Townhouses

• Condos

• Custom-built homes

If a builder cannot show proof of warranty coverage, that is a serious red flag.

Who Provides the Warranty?

The builder registers the home with an approved warranty provider. Buyers do not choose the provider.

As a buyer, you should always ask for:

• A warranty certificate

• The name of the warranty provider

• The coverage start date

• Builder registration details

Everything should be in writing.

When Does the Warranty Start?

The warranty usually begins on the possession date. That is the day you officially take ownership of the home.

All coverage periods are counted from this date.

How Alberta New Home Warranty Coverage Is Structured

The coverage is divided into time-based sections. Each section protects different parts of the home.

This structure helps buyers understand what is covered and when.

1-Year Coverage: Workmanship and Materials

The first year covers basic workmanship and materials.

This usually includes:

• Flooring defects

• Cabinets and countertops

• Doors and windows

• Paint and trim issues

• Plumbing systems

• Electrical systems

• Heating and ventilation

Most small problems appear during the first year.

2-Year Coverage: Major Systems and Exterior

The second year focuses on systems that keep the home working properly.

Covered items include:

• Plumbing system defects

• Electrical system defects

• Heating system defects

• Building envelope issues

The building envelope includes the roof, exterior walls, windows, and doors.

5-Year Coverage: Building Envelope Protection

This coverage protects against water entering the home due to construction defects.

It applies to problems with:

• Roof

• Exterior walls

• Windows

• Doors

In Calgary’s weather, this coverage is very important.

10-Year Coverage: Structural Defects

This is the longest and most serious coverage.

It protects against major structural problems such as:

• Foundation failure

• Load-bearing wall issues

• Structural collapse

These issues are rare but extremely expensive to fix without warranty coverage.

What the Warranty Does Not Cover

The Alberta New Home warranty is not a maintenance plan.

Common exclusions include:

• Normal wear and tear

• Poor homeowner maintenance

• Landscaping issues

• Flood or natural disaster damage

• Renovations or upgrades done by the homeowner

Reading the warranty guide helps avoid confusion later.

Coverage for Different Types of Homes

Single-Family Homes

Most standard new homes in Calgary receive full warranty coverage.

Duplexes and Townhouses

These homes are covered, including shared structural components.

Condos

Condos have two layers of coverage:

• Individual unit coverage

• Common area coverage

Common areas include roofs, parking garages, hallways, and elevators.

Custom Homes

Custom-built homes must also have warranty coverage. The warranty applies to construction defects, not personal design choices.

How to Use the Warranty

If you notice a problem:

1. Report it to the builder in writing

2. Keep photos and records

3. Contact the warranty provider if the builder does not respond

Acting early is very important.

Why Deadlines Matter

Each coverage period has strict deadlines. Missing a deadline can cancel your claim.

Report issues as soon as you notice them.

How Calgary Weather Affects Warranty Claims

Many warranty claims in Calgary are weather-related.

Common issues include:

• Foundation cracks from freeze-thaw cycles

• Roof leaks from snow buildup

• Window and door sealing failures

If these problems are caused by construction defects, the warranty may apply.

Does the Warranty Transfer to New Owners?

Yes.

If you sell your home while the warranty is still active, the remaining coverage usually transfers to the new owner.

This can increase resale value.

Common Mistakes Homeowners Make

• Not asking for warranty proof

• Ignoring warranty documents

• Missing claim deadlines

• Poor home maintenance

• Waiting too long to report problems

Avoiding these mistakes helps the warranty work in your favor.

Tips for Buyers in Calgary

• Do a detailed pre-possession inspection

• Keep all warranty documents safe

• Understand what is covered and what is not

• Report issues early

• Follow the claim process carefully

Being informed saves time and money.

Final Thoughts

The Alberta New Home Warranty Program is a key protection for anyone buying a new home in Calgary. It helps cover serious construction problems that can cost a lot to fix.

Before buying, confirm warranty coverage. After buying, understand how it works. This knowledge gives you confidence and peace of mind.

FAQs

What is the Alberta New Home Warranty Program?

It is a mandatory warranty that protects buyers of new homes in Alberta from construction defects.

Is the warranty required in Calgary?

Yes. Most new homes must have warranty coverage before being sold.

How long does the Alberta New Home warranty last?

Coverage ranges from 1 year to 10 years, depending on the issue.

Can buyers choose the warranty provider?

No. The builder selects the provider, but it must be approved.

Does the warranty cover normal wear and tear?

No. Normal wear and tear is not covered.