If you have lived in Florida for any length of time, you have heard the stories.
A brand-new house where a door sticks after the first rainy season. Hairline cracks that show up after a long, hot summer. Someone swearing a builder “cut corners” when the reality is the house just went through its first full cycle of heat, humidity, and afternoon storms.
In Florida, homes settle. Materials expand. Soil shifts. That is not bad construction. That is life in this climate.
What separates a good experience from a frustrating one is not whether a home ever needs attention. It is whether the builder anticipated Florida conditions and is prepared to stand behind the home once you move in.
That is exactly what a builder warranty is meant to do.
For native Floridians and long-time locals, buying a new home is not just about finishes or floor plans. It is about knowing who is responsible if something needs attention. It is about understanding what is normal, what is covered, and what is simply part of owning a home in this climate.
A builder warranty is one of the biggest advantages of buying new construction when it is clearly explained and properly used.
Not as legal fine print. Not as a last resort. But as a built-in layer of protection that reflects a builder’s confidence in their craftsmanship.
This guide walks through what builder warranties really cover, how they work in Florida, and how homeowners can use them the right way. Just clear information so you can move forward feeling confident in your investment and your builder.
What Is a Builder Warranty?
A builder warranty (sometimes called a new construction or structural warranty) is a written assurance from the builder that certain elements of the home will meet defined standards for a specific period after purchase.
Rather than covering accidental damage like homeowner’s insurance, a builder warranty focuses on the quality of construction, materials, and systems giving homeowners reassurance that their builder stands behind the home they delivered.
Why Builder Warranties Matter
Builder warranties exist to support homeowners and reinforce trust throughout the building process.
Key benefits include:
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Peace of mind: Confidence that construction-related issues will be addressed
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Quality assurance: A builder’s commitment to workmanship and materials
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Financial protection: Coverage for items that should perform correctly from day one
For many buyers, especially those new to construction, this added layer of protection is a major advantage of choosing a new home.
What’s Typically Covered in a Builder Warranty
While coverage varies slightly by builder, most warranties follow a clear structure that reflects how homes naturally age and settle.
1. Workmanship & Materials (Typically 1 Year)
This initial period covers visible finishes and installation quality.
Common examples include:
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Drywall cracks from settling
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Cabinet or countertop alignment
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Flooring installation issues
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Door and window operation
Because this coverage window is limited, homeowners are encouraged to note items early and communicate them clearly during the first year.
2. Major Systems (Typically 2 Years)
The systems portion focuses on the home’s essential mechanical components.
Usually includes:
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Plumbing
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Electrical systems
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HVAC
If a system issue results from installation or construction-related causes during this period, it is typically addressed under warranty.
3. Structural Components (Typically 10 Years)
Structural coverage addresses the home’s most critical load-bearing elements.
Typically includes:
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Foundation
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Structural framing
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Load-bearing walls and beams
This coverage applies when a condition affects the home’s structural integrity or habitability, not cosmetic settling that falls within industry standards.
What’s Usually Not Covered
Builder warranties are comprehensive, but not all-inclusive. Common exclusions often include:
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Appliances, which carry manufacturer warranties
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Normal wear and tear from daily living
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Homeowner maintenance issues, such as clogged filters or drainage neglect
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Weather-related events, covered by homeowner’s insurance
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Landscaping, unless specifically included
Understanding these distinctions helps set clear expectations and prevents confusion later.
Builder Warranty vs. Home Warranty
These two are often confused, but they serve different purposes:
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Builder Warranty: Included with new construction; focuses on construction quality
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Home Warranty: Optional service contract; covers appliance or system breakdowns over time
Florida-Specific Warranty Protections
Florida provides additional peace of mind for new construction buyers through a combination of statutory protections, builder-provided express warranties, and long-standing legal standards.
As of July 1, 2025, Florida law establishes a mandatory one-year statutory warranty for new residential construction, including single-family homes and small multi-family residences.
What this means for buyers:
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Covers construction defects involving materials, workmanship, or equipment that result in a material violation of the Florida Building Code
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Begins at closing or initial occupancy, whichever occurs first
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Automatically transfers to a new owner if the home is sold within the first year
It is worth noting that most reputable builders already exceed this minimum requirement. Many offer enhanced express warranties, commonly structured as a 1–2–10 warranty, which extends coverage well beyond the statutory baseline and reflects a long-term commitment to quality and homeowner confidence.
How to Use Your Builder Warranty Effectively
A builder warranty works best when homeowners take a proactive, organized approach. Rather than waiting for issues to escalate, early attention and clear communication help ensure concerns are addressed smoothly and within coverage periods.
1. Review Your Warranty Documents Early
Take time to understand your warranty before issues arise. Knowing what is covered, how long coverage lasts, and how claims are submitted allows you to act confidently and efficiently.
Tip: Keep your warranty documents, purchase contract, and builder contact information together in one place, both digitally and in print.
2. Schedule Regular Walkthroughs
New homes naturally go through a settling period, especially in Florida’s climate. Planned walkthroughs help catch small items early.
Recommended checkpoints:
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Shortly after move-in: Look for visible finish or installation items
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Around 6 months: Check for minor settling, door alignment, or flooring adjustments
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Around 11 months: Complete a full review before the first-year coverage expires
Many homeowners choose to hire a professional inspector at the 11-month mark to ensure nothing is overlooked.
3. Document Everything
Photos, videos, and written notes help keep communication clear and efficient. Include dates, descriptions, and any correspondence related to warranty items. Good documentation supports faster resolution and avoids confusion.
4. Follow the Warranty Process
Builders typically have a defined warranty process, often involving online submissions or written requests. Following the outlined steps helps ensure claims are reviewed and scheduled without unnecessary delays.
5. Stay on Top of Routine Maintenance
Warranty coverage works alongside responsible homeownership. Regular tasks such as replacing HVAC filters, clearing gutters, and maintaining seals help prevent issues that fall outside warranty coverage.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Even with a strong warranty in place, small missteps can create frustration. Most are easily avoided with a little planning.
Delayed Repairs
Non-urgent items may take time to schedule. Grouping minor concerns into a single request often leads to more efficient service visits.
Coverage Questions
If there is uncertainty about whether an item is covered, reviewing the warranty language and providing clear documentation usually resolves questions quickly. In some cases, an independent inspection can offer helpful clarity.
Waiting Too Long
Small issues can feel easy to ignore, but delays may push items outside the coverage window. Reporting concerns early protects your options.
Questions to Ask Your Builder About the Warranty
Before signing a contract, it is perfectly reasonable to ask detailed questions. A quality builder will welcome the conversation.
Consider asking:
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How long does each portion of the warranty last?
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Which items are covered by the builder versus the manufacturer?
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What maintenance is expected of the homeowner?
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How are warranty requests submitted and tracked?
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Is the warranty transferable if the home is sold?
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Is any portion backed by a third-party provider?
Clear answers upfront lead to smoother experiences later.
State and Local Warranty Considerations
Warranty requirements vary by state. In Florida, builders are held to established standards through implied warranties and may also provide express warranties that clearly outline coverage terms. These protections are designed to support both homeowners and builders by setting clear expectations.
Final Thoughts
A builder warranty is one of the strongest advantages of buying a new construction home. It reflects a builder’s confidence in their work and provides homeowners with added security during the early years of ownership.
By understanding your warranty, staying organized, and addressing concerns promptly, you can take full advantage of the protections built into your home. A thoughtful approach not only helps prevent unexpected repair costs, it also supports a smooth, confident, and enjoyable homeownership experience from day one.
A Note from CFB Homes
At CFB Homes, we believe a well-built home should come with clear expectations, honest communication, and long-term confidence. Builder warranties are not an afterthought, they are part of how we stand behind the homes we build. If you have questions about warranties, construction standards, or what to expect after closing, our team is always happy to walk you through the process so you feel informed at every step.
