Structural warranty on extension

[Jonny]

Hi all,

Just thought that I would share a cautionary tale regarding structural warranties. 

 

Tldr: Structural warranty requested by mortgage providers for extension when selling house. 
 

In short, we are selling a semi detached property and have had real difficulty with mortgage providers and the requirement for a structural warranty. 
 

In our ownership, the property has been fully refurbished both in and out, with new plumbing/electrics t/o.  The property was mortgageable so when purchased so very livable. 3 years ago we added a two storey side and rear extension which basically wrapped around 2 of 3 side of the property and added around 1/3 floor space. This had full architect design/SE input and building control sign off throughout. As far as I was aware that was all that was needed. 
 

Unfortunately this hasn’t been the case, and a structural warranty is required as they deem the work to be a significant alteration.
They will not accept a (very expensive) retrospective warranty, PCC or indemnity insurance. 
 

This has effectively paused the current sale until the buyer can find another mortgage provider! 

 

I just thought it was worth sharing in case anyone was planning a ‘significant’ alteration!