Structural warranties for modular and MMC affordable homes
Latent defects cover for volumetric modular, panelised and other modern methods of construction - and what warranty providers want to see about the system, the factory and the work on site.
- Instant response
- Insurer quotes usually within one working day of your proposal
- UK FCA Regulated Broker
- No broker fee to pay
- Rent, shared ownership and sale
Modern methods of construction
Why a modular housing warranty needs more preparation
Some housing associations and councils use offsite and other modern methods of construction to speed up delivery and make quality more predictable. Warranty providers will consider MMC homes, but they need confidence that the system will perform for the whole policy period.
Because much of the building is made away from the site, providers look at the system and the factory as well as the work their surveyor sees on site. The build methods they are asked to cover include:
- Volumetric modules built and fitted out in a factory
- Panelised systems in timber, light gauge steel or concrete
- Structural insulated panels and other closed panel systems
- Hybrid approaches, such as factory-made pods or roof cassettes on a traditional structure
What providers look at
System approvals, factory quality and installation
Every provider has its own approach and evidence requirements. These are the areas they typically ask about.
The system
Evidence that the system has been independently assessed - for example third-party accreditation covering its structure, durability, fire performance and weather resistance. Providers differ in which evidence they accept.
The factory
The manufacturer's quality processes, how each module or panel is checked and signed off, and what records travel with it to site. Some providers may want to see the factory for themselves.
The site
How units are delivered, lifted, fixed and connected, how joints are sealed and how the foundations are set out to receive them. Site inspections tend to focus on these connections.
Planning ahead
Bring the warranty in when the system is chosen
The best time to talk to us is while you are choosing a system or a manufacturer, not after the contract is signed. We can tell you which providers are comfortable with the system you have in mind, what evidence they will want and whether it is likely to affect the price.
Providers may also think about the long term - whether repair details and replacement parts will still be available years from now, and how a defect could be put right if the manufacturer is no longer trading. Clear as-built information and maintenance guidance help on both counts.
Modular housing warranties - common questions
Can modular homes get a structural warranty?
Yes, many can. Many providers will consider modular and other MMC homes, subject to their assessment of the system, and each looks at it on its merits and some are more comfortable with particular systems than others.
What evidence do providers want for an MMC system?
It varies, but expect questions about independent assessment of the system, such as third-party accreditation, the manufacturer's quality processes and how the units are installed and connected on site. We tell you what the provider needs before you apply.
Are MMC homes more expensive to warrant?
Not necessarily. A well evidenced system from an established manufacturer may be priced much like traditional construction. Less familiar systems may attract a higher premium or extra conditions.
Will mortgage lenders accept modular shared ownership homes?
Lenders generally look for a warranty from a provider they accept, and some have their own views on non-traditional construction. For homes that will be sold or part sold, check lender appetite early as well as warranty cover.
Tell us about your MMC scheme
Tell us the system, the manufacturer if you know it and the number of homes, and we will find the providers comfortable covering it.
- Takes under a minute
- Instant reply by email with your reference
- Insurer quotes usually within one working day of your completed proposal
- Schemes anywhere in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
- Free and no obligation
Already filled in a proposal form? Email it to us or send it on WhatsApp with any drawings you have and we will take it from there.
