Check the home, builder and coverage separately

Alberta’s minimum new-home coverage generally follows a 1–2–5–10 structure: labour and materials, delivery and distribution systems, building envelope, and structural components. Confirm the applicable coverage, start dates, exclusions and any authorized exemption for this particular property. Do not assume the builder and warranty insurer are the same organization.

Before paying a deposit

Have your lawyer examine who receives and holds the deposit, release conditions, any deposit insurance and its limits, cancellation rights, delay provisions and remedies. Do not assume a construction warranty protects your deposit or guarantees completion. Verify representation and compensation in your own agreement; builder payment of buyer-agent fees is not universal.

At inspection and possession

Arrange inspection access with the builder. Record deficiencies with dated photos, locations and written requests. Confirm the reporting route with the warranty provider and report promptly within the applicable deadline. A scheduled 11-month inspection is not a reason to wait to report a known problem.

Official sources

Sources checked September 5, 2026. Confirm the current requirements and your own documents before acting.

Apply this to your property

Bring the address or area, property type, decision and deadline. Do not send identity documents, bank details or confidential agreements through a general enquiry.

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RELATED GUIDES / New builds

Compare the builder, lot and total cost.

Ask for the complete contract, deposit protection, inclusions, GST treatment and delay terms before paying. A nearby permit or a showhome is not proof that your home or its amenities will be completed on schedule.

Official verification: Alberta builder and property warranty registry ↗

Affiliated network resources provide context. Confirm rules, approvals and property records with the responsible authority.

PRACTICAL FIELD GUIDE

New build or recent resale? Compare the full cost and purchase terms.

A Calgary buyer’s field guide to complete cost, possession timing, remaining warranty and unfinished work when comparing a builder purchase with a recently built resale.

Open the illustrated comparison and checklist →