Question 1

Do I tell my builder before filing a Tarion claim in Kanata?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you notify your builder first. Tarion says: "Before you make a claim to Tarion, it's important that you notify your builder." The process works in two stages. You record items on the appropriate Tarion warranty form, which goes to your builder as the first step. If the builder does not respond or the response is unsatisfactory, you can then involve Tarion directly, including requesting a conciliation inspection.

Question 2

Should I hire an inspector for my new build PDI in Riverside South?

Accepted Answer

Tarion requires your builder to do a Pre-Delivery Inspection with you before handing over the keys, and you are entitled to bring someone along or send a designate in your place. Hiring a home inspector to attend is one way to use that right. Tarion's rules on this are straightforward. The PDI is a floor-by-floor walk-through whose purpose is to record items that are incomplete, damaged, missing, inaccessible or not operating properly, all noted on the builder's PDI Form.

Question 3

How long does Tarion cover major structural defects in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

The seven-year warranty covers major structural defects, running from the date of possession to the seventh anniversary of that date. Tarion divides the new-home warranty into three time periods. The one-year warranty covers items such as defects in work and material and unauthorized substitutions. The two-year warranty covers items such as water penetration, heating and electrical. The seven-year warranty is specifically for major structural defects, and it is the longest of the three periods.

Question 4

What does Tarion's second-year warranty cover on an Ottawa new build?

Accepted Answer

Tarion describes its two-year warranty as including items such as water penetration, heating and electrical. It is the middle of three warranty periods: Tarion's warranty is "divided into three different time periods: 1, 2 and 7 years." How the three compare, in Tarion's words: - One year: includes items such as defects in work and material and unauthorized substitutions. - Two years: includes items such as water penetration, heating and electrical.

Question 5

Can I send someone else to my PDI in Findlay Creek?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can send someone else. Tarion says you or a designate must be present during the Pre-Delivery Inspection, and that there is no restriction on who you choose as your designate. If you send someone in your place rather than going yourself, Tarion says you should give your builder written authority for that person to sign the PDI Form on your behalf. If you plan to attend the PDI yourself, you can also bring someone along without making them your designate.

Question 6

What goes on the Tarion Initial Form after moving into a Barrhaven home?

Accepted Answer

The Initial Form is the first of Tarion's warranty forms after you move in. Tarion says you can begin adding items 1 day after your date of possession, and the form is submitted automatically on day 41. It is a warranty form, so it is for items covered by Tarion's warranty. Tarion describes the one-year warranty as including items such as defects in work and material and unauthorized substitutions, and the two-year warranty as including items such as water penetration, heating and electrical.

Question 7

What happens if I miss an item on my PDI form in Ottawa?

Accepted Answer

Missing an item on your PDI form does not by itself end your warranty coverage. Tarion says: "The PDI Form does not represent a request for warranty service, so if you fail to note an item this does not necessarily impact your warranty coverage. However, the PDI Form is a useful piece of evidence if you have a conciliation inspection." The PDI and the warranty forms do different jobs.

New Homes & Tarion