Are new-build homes better quality than older properties?

What ‘quality’ means for new-build homes

 

The focus on the quality of new-build homes is set to intensify in the coming years. To raise standards, the UK government created the New Homes Quality Board, which has established a New Homes Ombudsman Service and a New Homes Quality Code.

 

New homes can offer first time buyers and existing homeowners excellent quality compared to older properties. Some of the main benefits of new-build homes include:

• Modern building standards and regulations. New-build homes must comply with current building regulations. These regulations cover structural integrity, fire safety, accessibility, ventilation and energy efficiency

• Improved materials, construction and design. New homes offer modern cavity walls, breathable membranes and damp-proofing. You can also benefit from modern designs that maximise natural light and create flexible living spaces

• Complete warranty coverage. New builds also come with warranties to protect buyers from any issues that may arise. Every David Wilson home has an NHBC warranty and insurance policy, known as Buildmark, which includes a 2-year builder warranty period, followed by an 8-year insurance cover

Comparing new build and older homes

There are several benefits of new-build homes. High-quality new builds will usually require less maintenance, come with warranties to cover any building snags and deliver improved energy-efficient living when compared to an older property.

Energy efficiency and insulation

New-build homes often achieve better energy performance ratings than older properties. 86% of new builds have an A or B EPC rating, while less than 5% of existing older properties achieve these ratings. Superior insulation, high-performance windows and efficient heating systems work together to minimise energy waste.

 

Retrofitting insulation to older homes may cost thousands of pounds and may not match the performance of new-build insulation. New-build homes often incorporate insulation throughout their structure from the outset, with filled cavity walls, 270mm loft insulation and insulated floors as standard. This can mean reduced energy costs, with new build owners saving an average of an £979 per year on utility bills.

Reduction in carbon emissions

Lower energy consumption significantly reduces your carbon footprint whilst protecting your budget from rising energy prices. Research suggests that new-build homes emit just 35% of the carbon of the average older property.

Maintenance and repairs

New-build homes require minimal maintenance initially, and homeowners are often covered by warranties. This means you are less likely to face unexpected expenses for new heating systems, rewiring, roof repairs or damp treatment, which frequently burden owners of older properties. Modern materials and construction methods ensure reliability and longevity that older properties often cannot match.

Character, space and architectural features

Some people are drawn to older properties because of their original features and character. The charm of an older property can quickly fade if it needs costly modernisation, like rewiring, a new heating system or damp proofing. Brand-new homes can be full of style and character, too. At David Wilson, our modern new-build homes offer improved design, quality finishes and flexible layouts that suit modern lifestyles.

Location and infrastructure differences

New build developments typically include well-designed infrastructure, such as improved road layouts, dedicated parking spaces, green spaces and community facilities like playgrounds or gardens. Older properties tend to be in more established areas, which can offer larger communities and proximity to schools and amenities.

Why new-build homes can offer higher quality

New-build homes can offer homeowners higher quality than older properties, from customisation opportunities to greener features like solar panels.

Latest heating, insulation and building standards

New-build homes often feature the most advanced heating systems available, including modern condensing boilers, heat pumps or underfloor heating, which can deliver superior efficiency and reliability. Building regulations require new builds to incorporate renewable technologies where possible, helping to future-proof your home against evolving energy requirements.

Green features

New-build homes may also incorporate sustainable features such as energy-efficient lighting, water-saving fixtures, and high-performance appliances. When buying a brand-new home, you can benefit from renewable energy features like solar panels or air-source heat pumps, which may further reduce running costs. Other features may include electric vehicle charging points, smart heating controls and superior insulation.

Customisation opportunities

Many developers offer choices on fixtures, fittings and finishes during construction, allowing you to personalise your new home before moving in. You might select kitchen worktops, bathroom tiles, flooring or even internal layouts in some developments. At David Wilson Homes, we offer customisation, from bathroom tiles to fitted wardrobes, so you can make your home truly your own.

Quality assurance for new build buyers

Multiple layers of quality assurance can protect buyers when purchasing new-build homes.

What housebuilder warranties cover

Check what warranties are included when buying a new build, what they cover and how long the cover lasts. With a David Wilson home, you are protected by the NHBC warranty and insurance, which provide comprehensive coverage for structural defects, subsidence and other major issues for a given period.

The New Homes Quality Board and consumer codes

The New Homes Quality Board oversees industry standards, working to protect buyers and drive improvement in new-build homes. The New Homes Quality Code sets expectations for how developers should treat customers, covering everything from marketing accuracy to after-sales service. This regulatory framework ensures accountability and provides recourse if developers fail to meet obligations.

How snagging works and what to expect

When buying a home, fixing minor defects or snags is expected, but it’s important to know what your builder can do if problems arise. When you move in, take time to check all the rooms. Take a good look at the paintwork, sockets, switches, cupboard doors and bannisters. If anything isn’t up to the standard you expect, let the homebuilder know. Make sure any changes you agree with the homebuilder are signed off in writing.

 

David Wilson homes come with a 2-year fixtures and fittings warranty, so any issues can be resolved during this time.

How to assess the quality of any home

Whether you’re considering a new build or an older property, it can be helpful to know how to evaluate quality.

Key checks and surveys to consider

If you’re buying a home, make sure the homebuilder has a proven track record for quality, from construction through to customer service. For new builds, check that the developer is registered with NHBC or a similar warranty provider. For older properties, you may want a house survey to examine the condition and identify potential problems.

What to look for at viewings

During viewings of new-build homes, you may want to examine the build quality. This could include checking doors and windows, inspecting paintwork and testing light switches, sockets and taps. Look at the quality of kitchen fittings, bathroom fixtures and built-in storage, assessing whether the materials feel substantial and well installed. When buying a home, don't rush viewings. You should also ask about energy performance ratings, heating systems and any included appliances.

Using professional inspections before you buy

Professional inspections provide expert assessment of property condition, identifying issues that buyers might overlook during viewings. For older properties, building surveys are essential when buying a home. They reveal structural concerns, maintenance requirements and any potential costly problems.

 

Browse our range of new homes across the UK and explore our unique offers, like the First Homes scheme.

 

Call or visit our Sales Advisers to start your homebuying journey today.