Buying a new home is a big step. In Calgary, it’s also a big investment. Many buyers assume a new home means no problems. In reality, even new homes can have defects. That is why the Alberta New Home warranty program exists. It protects buyers and sets clear rules for builders.

This article shares clear, honest facts about the Alberta New Home Warranty Program in Calgary. No sales tone. No complex language. Just real information buyers should know before and after purchasing a new home.

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, including Calgary. Builders must provide this warranty before selling a new home.

This program exists to protect buyers from construction defects related to workmanship, materials, systems, and structure. It also ensures builders take responsibility for the quality of their work.

Is the Warranty Required by Law?

Yes. This is not optional.

In Calgary, builders are legally required to provide warranty coverage for most new residential properties. If a builder cannot show proof of warranty registration, they are not allowed to sell the home.

This is one of the most important facts buyers should know.

Who Is Covered Under the Program?

The warranty applies to most new residential homes, including:

• Single-family houses

• Duplexes

• Townhouses

• Condominiums

• Custom-built homes

If a home is newly built and sold by a builder, warranty coverage is usually required.

When Does the Warranty Start?

The warranty typically starts on the possession date. This is the day the buyer officially takes ownership of the home.

All warranty timelines are counted from this date. Knowing your possession date is critical because missing deadlines can void coverage.

How Warranty Coverage Is Structured

The program uses time-based coverage periods. Each period focuses on different types of defects.

These periods are not random. They are based on when issues usually appear in new homes.

1-Year Coverage Facts

The first year covers workmanship and materials. This is when most small issues show up.

Examples include:

• Flooring defects

• Cabinet problems

• Doors and windows not working properly

• Paint and trim issues

• Plumbing fixture problems

• Electrical defects

• Heating and cooling system issues

If something was built incorrectly, it should be addressed in this first year.

2-Year Coverage Facts

The second year focuses on major systems and the building envelope.

Major systems include:

• Plumbing systems

• Electrical systems

• Heating systems

The building envelope includes:

• Roof

• Exterior walls

• Windows

• Doors

In Calgary, this coverage is important because weather often exposes envelope defects.

5-Year Coverage Facts

The five-year period covers water penetration caused by construction defects.

This includes:

• Roof leaks

• Water entry through exterior walls

• Poorly sealed windows or doors

Water issues can take time to appear. That’s why longer coverage exists.

10-Year Coverage Facts

This is the longest and most serious coverage period.

It protects against major structural defects, such as:

• Foundation failure

• Load-bearing wall issues

• Structural collapse

Structural repairs are expensive. This coverage protects buyers from major financial loss.

What the Warranty Does Not Cover

This is a key fact many buyers misunderstand.

The warranty does not cover everything.

Common exclusions include:

• Normal wear and tear

• Damage from poor maintenance

• Landscaping and fencing

• Floods or natural disasters

• Renovations or changes made after possession

The warranty only applies to defects caused by construction or materials.

Builder Responsibilities Under the Program

Builders must:

• Be registered

• Enroll each new home in a warranty program

• Provide buyers with warranty documentation

• Respond to reported defects

• Attempt repairs within a reasonable time

If builders fail to meet these responsibilities, buyers can involve the warranty provider.

Buyer Responsibilities Under the Program

Buyers also have responsibilities.

They must:

• Maintain the home properly

• Report issues in writing

• Report issues within warranty timelines

• Allow reasonable access for repairs

Failing to meet these responsibilities can affect coverage.

How to Confirm Warranty Coverage Before Buying

One important fact: never rely on verbal promises.

Before signing any agreement, buyers should receive:

• A warranty certificate

• The warranty provider’s name

• Builder registration details

• Warranty start date

• Coverage details

If this information is missing, stop and ask questions.

How the Claim Process Works

Here are the basic facts about making a claim:

1. Issues must be reported to the builder first

2. Reports should be in writing

3. Photos and documentation help

4. Builders must be given a chance to fix the issue

5. If unresolved, the warranty provider can step in

This process is structured to be fair to both buyers and builders.

Why Deadlines Matter So Much

Each coverage period has a deadline. If an issue is reported after the deadline, it may not be covered.

This is why Alberta New Home warranty rules strongly encourage early reporting. Even small issues should be reported right away.

Waiting too long is one of the most common reasons claims are denied.

Condo Warranty Facts

Condo coverage works differently than single-family homes.

There are two types of coverage:

• Individual unit coverage

• Common property coverage

The condo board usually handles claims for shared areas like roofs, hallways, and parking structures. Unit owners handle issues inside their own units.

Custom Home Warranty Facts

Custom homes are not exempt from warranty rules.

If a builder constructs and sells a custom home, warranty coverage is required. However, design choices or upgrades selected by the buyer are not covered.

Construction defects still are.

Warranty Transfer Facts

Another important fact: warranty coverage usually transfers when the home is sold.

If you sell your home before the warranty expires, the remaining coverage can pass to the new owner. This increases buyer confidence and resale value.

The transfer must be registered with the warranty provider.

How Calgary Weather Affects Warranty Claims

Calgary’s climate plays a big role in revealing construction defects.

Common weather-related issues include:

• Foundation cracks from freeze-thaw cycles

• Roof leaks after heavy snow

• Exterior wall issues caused by wind

If these problems are due to construction defects, warranty coverage applies.

Common Myths About the Warranty

Let’s clear up a few myths.

Myth: New homes don’t have problems
Fact: New homes can and do have defects

Myth: The warranty covers everything
Fact: Only construction-related defects are covered

Myth: Small issues don’t matter
Fact: Small issues can become big ones if ignored

Why These Facts Matter for Buyers

Understanding the facts helps buyers:

• Protect their investment

• Avoid costly mistakes

• Use warranty coverage correctly

• Hold builders accountable

The Alberta New Home warranty program only works if buyers know how it works.

Practical Tips for Buyers

• Do a full inspection before possession

• Keep all warranty documents

• Report issues early

• Take photos and notes

• Follow the claim process

• Don’t ignore small problems

These simple steps make a big difference.

Final Thoughts

The Alberta New Home Warranty Program is a key protection for buyers in Calgary. It is backed by clear rules, structured coverage, and defined timelines.

Knowing the facts helps you avoid surprises, protect your home, and feel confident in your purchase. The Alberta New Home warranty is not just paperwork. It is real protection for one of the biggest investments of your life.

FAQs

Is the warranty mandatory in Calgary?
Yes. Most new homes must have warranty coverage before sale.

How long does coverage last?
Coverage ranges from 1 year to 10 years, depending on the defect.

Can I lose warranty coverage?
Yes. Missing deadlines or failing to report issues can void claims.

Does the warranty transfer to a new owner?
Yes. Remaining coverage usually transfers when the home is sold.

Should I report minor defects?
Yes. Report everything early to protect your rights.