Make the New Homes Ombudsman Scheme Mandatory and Protect UK Home Buyers

The New Homes Ombudsman Scheme (NHOS) has been in the spotlight recently. With faults  in new homes becoming more frequent. There has been a sharp rise in demand for post and pre completion snagging reports. This had led to consumer pressure to make the NHOS compulsory for all house builders. But what exactly is the scheme and why should home buyers care?

In this blog, we’ll explain what NHOS is and why it matters. But most importantly how it could transform the experience of buying a new-build home.

What Is the New Homes Ombudsman Scheme?

The New Homes Ombudsman Scheme is a government-backed initiative. It is aimed at improving standards in the new-build housing sector. NHOS provides an independent complaints service to help homeowners resolve disputes with developers. The scheme is especially focussed around poor quality, defects, and unfinished work.

Right now, NHOS is voluntary. Some developers have signed up, but many haven’t. That’s where the problem lies.

Why Are People Calling for It to Be Mandatory?

Consumer groups and snagging inspectors (like us!) are seeing the same issues again and again. Many developers are refusing to fix snagging issues. Then providing poor customer service after move-in. Worst of all generally showing a lack of accountability when things go wrong. This has led many people calling for the NHOS to be made mandatory.

What Would Change If NHOS Became Mandatory?

If the government makes NHOS a legal requirement, housebuilders would be obliged to join the scheme. That means new home buyers would have a clear complaints route. Developers would face penalties for non-compliance and more pressure would be placed on home builders to get things right first time.

Crucially, it would also give snagging survey reports greater weight when challenging a builder’s response.

What Can You Do Now as a Buyer?

Even though NHOS isn’t compulsory yet, you still have options.
A professional snagging survey from HomeSnaggingUK gives you A detailed, photographic report of every issue. It also provides independent, third-party evidence for complaints and support when dealing with your developer. Our services include:

Pre-completion Snagging Reports

Post-completion Snagging Reports

De-snag Completion Reports

Whether or not your builder is signed up to NHOS. A snagging report from HomSnaggingUK will makes your case stronger and protects your investment.

Is My Developer Signed Up?

Several of the largest volume builders have already registered and are fully active members of the Scheme and Quality Code, including:

• Barratt Homes
• Taylor Wimpey
• Redrow
• Bellway Homes
• Persimmon Homes 

You can check if your developer has joined NHOS on the official New Homes Quality Board (NHQB) website. But even if they aren’t, that doesn’t mean you’re powerless. A snagging inspection remains your best line of defence.

The New Homes Ombudsman Scheme could be a game-changer for buyers—but until it becomes mandatory, the responsibility to protect yourself lies with you.

Book a snagging inspection with HomeSnaggingUK and get the peace of mind you deserve.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the NHOS?

The NHOS is the New Homes Ombudsman Scheme, set up to help buyers resolve disputes with developers over quality or service.

Can I complain to NHOS if my builder isn’t signed up?

No, you can only lodge a complaint if your builder is a registered member. That’s why the push for mandatory membership is so important.

How does a snagging report help with complaints?

A snagging report provides independent, detailed evidence of defects in your property. It strengthens your case when negotiating with builders.

How do I know if my builder is in the scheme?

Visit the NHQB website and check their list of registered developers.