Retrospective Warranty for completed properties

Retrospective Warranty

Retrospective Structural Warranty for Completed Homes

If your property was built or converted within the last 10 years and doesn’t have a structural warranty in place, a retrospective warranty can fill that gap. Sometimes referred to as a completed property warranty, this cover protects against major structural defects — even after the build is finished.

Whether you’re selling the property or need to meet lender requirements, a retrospective warranty offers peace of mind that an architect’s certificate or builder’s guarantee simply can’t match. There’s no need to prove negligence. If something goes wrong with the structure, workmanship, or materials, you’re covered.

Key Inclusions

How it works

How Does a Retrospective Warranty Work?

We’ll provide a clear quotation outlining the premium, cover, and survey fees.

A full property survey is arranged so the insurer can assess the home’s condition and suitability.

If defects are identified, we’ll let you know. You can choose to fix them, or proceed with exclusions in place.

Once the premium is paid, the warranty is activated — with full structural cover from day one.

Covers Completed Homes Up to 10 Years Old

The retrospective warranty is available for properties completed within the last 10 years that didn’t have a recognised structural warranty in place at the time of construction. It’s ideal for homeowners, developers or sellers needing to bridge that gap.

Accepted by Major Lenders

A retrospective warranty is typically a requirement when a buyer’s mortgage lender won’t accept an architect’s certificate or builder’s guarantee. It provides a more secure form of cover — with no need to prove professional negligence. See our approved lenders here.

Successor in Title Included as Standard

The cover extends automatically to any future owner or mortgagee during the policy term. That means the warranty transfers with the property, giving lasting peace of mind and better resale value.

No Defects Period

Unlike standard warranties that include a builder’s defect period, retrospective warranties offer full cover from day one. Once active, the policy covers structural damage, defective waterproofing, drainage issues and more.

Learn More About Retrospective Warranties

We’ve compiled a list of answers below for common questions related to Retrospective warranties.

Can I get a structural warranty on a house that’s already built?

Yes — Protek can provide retrospective structural warranty cover on properties completed within the last 10 years.

How long does the cover last?

The policy provides cover for the remainder of the original 10-year term from the date of practical completion.

Who is eligible for a retrospective warranty?

Anyone who owns or is selling a residential property completed within the last 10 years, without an existing structural warranty, architect’s certificate, or builder’s guarantee accepted by lenders.

What if my property was built more than 10 years ago?

Unfortunately, retrospective structural warranty cover is only available for properties built or converted within the last 10 years.

Can exclusions be removed later if I fix the defects?

Yes — if initial exclusions were applied due to unresolved issues, these can sometimes be removed after the required work is completed and reinspected.

Is this the same as an architect’s certificate?

No — a retrospective warranty is a formal insurance policy that doesn’t require proof of negligence and offers stronger protection than a professional certificate.

Can’t find the answer to your question? Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page.

Ready to Secure Your Project with a Protek Warranty?

Our flexible, lender-approved structural warranties help keep your build moving — backed by expert support from day one.