Home Builder Structural Warranty Overview

Clear Coverage. Defined Responsibility. Long-Term Protection.

American eBuilder provides third-party structural new home warranties designed specifically for builders. Our warranty structure clearly defines who covers what—and when—so builders, homeowners, and lenders all know exactly how coverage works.

This page gives a complete overview of warranty coverage, including coverage timelines, claims responsibility, and how our warranties protect builders and homeowners over time.

Warranty Coverage Timeline (At a Glance)

A quick view of years 1, 2 and 3-10 coverages

Year 1 – Builder Coverage: Materials & Workmanship

During the first year after completion, the builder is responsible for defects related to materials and workmanship.

This includes construction-related issues resulting from installation or building practices, as defined by the builder’s warranty obligations.

Year 2 – Builder Coverage: Delivery Systems Only

During the second year, the builder remains responsible, but coverage is limited to specific delivery systems, including:

  • HVAC systems
  • Plumbing systems
  • Electrical systems
  • Septic delivery systems

 

Other workmanship or cosmetic items are not covered during year two.

Years 3–10 – Insured Coverage: Structural & Foundation Defects

From years three through ten, coverage shifts to the warrantor.

The warrantor covers qualifying structural and foundation defects, including failures of covered load-bearing components that affect the home’s structural integrity, as defined in the warranty agreement.

This long-term coverage protects builders from extended liability while providing homeowners with structural peace of mind.

What Is Considered a Structural Defect?

A structural defect is a failure of a covered load-bearing component that:

  • Compromises the home’s structural integrity, and
  • Affects the home’s intended use or safety

 

Examples may include qualifying foundation movement or failure of structural framing components, subject to warranty terms and conditions.

Covered Structural Components (Years 3–10)

Structural coverage typically includes:

  • Foundations and footings
  • Load-bearing walls
  • Beams, columns, and lintels
  • Floor framing systems
  • Roof framing systems

 

Exact coverage details are defined in the warranty documentation.

What Is Not Covered

The warranty generally does not cover:

  • Cosmetic defects
  • Normal wear and tear
  • Maintenance-related issues
  • Non-load-bearing components
  • Damage caused by homeowner neglect or external events

 

Specific exclusions are outlined in the warranty agreement.

Who Handles Warranty Claims?

Responsibility depends on when the issue occurs:

  • Year 1: Homeowner contacts the builder (materials and workmanship)
  • Year 2: Homeowner contacts the builder (covered delivery systems only)
  • Years 3–10: Homeowner files a claim with the warrantor (structural and foundation defects)

 

This clear separation ensures claims are directed to the correct party and resolved efficiently.

Why Builders Choose American eBuilder Warranties

Builders choose American eBuilder because our warranties:

  • Clearly define coverage responsibilities
  • Reduce long-term structural liability
  • Meet lender and regulatory requirements
  • Offer insured structural protection from years 3–10
  • Provide a predictable, professional claims framework

 

Resources & Next Steps

 

American eBuilder warranties are designed to support builders, protect homeowners, and simplify long-term risk management through clear, structured coverage.