4 Things Rental Owners Need to Know About the Alberta New Home Warranty

1. Who Does the Home Warranty Protect?

Any person who owns a home built in Alberta less than 10 years old is covered by the New Home Buyer Protection Act. 

This act ensures that new homeowners are protected against defects in materials, labour, and structure—giving them peace of mind and safeguarding their investment.

2. When Does the Home Warranty Begin?

A new home warranty is attached to the home, not the owner, meaning it remains in effect even if the home is sold before the coverage expires.

The warranty coverage officially begins when the first of these events occurs:

✔ The home is occupied
✔ The permitting authority grants permission to occupy
✔ The title is transferred to the owner

Once coverage starts, homeowners benefit from minimum protections mandated by Alberta law.

3. What Does the Home Warranty Cover?

Under the New Home Buyer Protection Act, all newly constructed homes must have the following minimum coverage:

1-Year Coverage: Labour & Materials

• Covers defects in construction materials and workmanship.
• Includes flooring, baseboards, cabinets, staircases, railings, and other interior finishes.

2-Year Coverage: Delivery & Distribution Systems

• Protects electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.
• Ensures that essential home systems function properly.

5-Year Coverage: Building Envelope Protection

• Covers the roof, walls, and exterior shell of the home.
• Helps protect against leaks, drafts, and insulation failures.

10-Year Coverage: Major Structural Components

• Covers foundation, framing, and roof structure to ensure long-term stability.
• Protects against defects that compromise the home’s structural integrity.

4. Why Are Warranty Appointments So Important?

Warranty appointments are essential to keeping your coverage valid. Missing required inspections or failing to report issues could void parts of your warranty. 

To ensure your warranty remains in effect, we schedule an agent to attend all warranty appointments for your property. These warranty appointments ensure that your home remains protected throughout the warranty period.

Protecting Your Home & Investment

A new home warranty is more than just a legal requirement—it’s a valuable safeguard against unexpected repair costs. 

At Ripple Property Management, we help homeowners and property investors navigate the complexities of homeownership in Alberta. If you need expert guidance on property maintenance, tenant management, or maximizing your real estate investment, contact us today!