Defects Liability Period

The defects liability period (DLP) — sometimes called a “warranty period” or “rectification period” — is a defined window of time after your renovation reaches practical completion during which your contractor is contractually obliged to come back and fix any defects at no extra cost to you.

How long does it last?

For residential renovations, the defects liability period is typically:

• 6 months for straightforward projects
• 12 months for larger or more complex renovations

The exact duration should be agreed in your contract before work begins.

What it covers

The defects liability period covers problems that become apparent after you start living with the finished work, such as:

• Cracks appearing in plaster or paintwork as the building settles
• Leaks in plumbing connections that weren’t obvious during testing
• Doors or windows that stick or don’t close properly
• Tile cracks or grout failure
• Electrical issues that only show up with regular use

It does not cover:

• Damage caused by the homeowner (e.g., drilling through a pipe)
• Normal wear and tear
• Issues caused by poor maintenance
• Work that was never part of the original scope of work

Why it matters

Some defects simply aren’t visible on the day the work finishes. A new plaster finish might crack as the house goes through its first heating cycle. A shower tray might develop a slow leak that only appears after weeks of use. The defects liability period gives you a safety net for these kinds of issues.

Connection to retention

The defects liability period is closely linked to retention. The final portion of retained funds is typically released at the end of this period, once all defects have been corrected. This gives the contractor a financial incentive to respond promptly when you report problems.

Always ensure your contract clearly states the defects liability period, what it covers, and how to report issues.