Homeowners win more rights over building contractor errors

Buyers of a new home may soon be able to hold contractors liable for defects after delivery. Currently contractors are only liable for hidden defects and defects that have been noted and recorded on a list before the delivery day.

According to a new legislative proposal by Minister Stef Blok of Housing, buyers or clients may soon also require the contractor to repair defects that they spotted, but forgot to write down on the delivery list, Het Parool reports. This strengthens the position of clients.

This proposal covers newly built homes and the serial construction of homes, but not the renovation of one house. The Cabinet agreed to the proposal on Wednesday. Blok hopes to implement the changes in 2016, if the parliament agrees.