How to Avoid Delays with Your Structural Warranty Final Certificates
When a construction project is nearing completion, there’s always a push to get everything signed off and handed over on time. However, one key step that can often slow down this process is the issuance of structural warranty final certificates.
These certificates are essential because they confirm that the project has met the necessary standards set out by your structural warranty provider. Without them, sales, handovers, and even funding arrangements can be delayed — creating unnecessary stress for developers, contractors, and buyers alike.
The good news is that many of these delays are avoidable with good planning and preparation. Here’s what you need to know to keep your project moving smoothly.
Why Structural Warranty Final Certificates Are So Important
A structural warranty final certificate is typically the last piece of compliance documentation required before a development can be completed and sold.
Mortgage lenders, housing associations, and even some private buyers will insist on having a copy of the final certificate before progressing. Without it, legal completions can’t take place, and this can cause:
- Delays in property sales or handovers.
- Frustration for buyers and stakeholders.
- Increased financial pressure on developers due to missed deadlines.
- Complications with project funding or future developments.
In short, the final certificate is critical to closing out your project on schedule.
The Documentation Your Provider Will Require
One of the most common causes of delay is missing documentation. Your structural warranty provider cannot release the final certificate until they have received and reviewed all required paperwork.
It’s important to note that requirements vary from provider to provider, so always check your specific provider’s list. However, there are some documents that are typically needed across most structural warranty policies:
- Building Control Final Completion Certificate – This is usually the last document to be issued and confirms compliance with Building Regulations.
- NICEIC Electrical Certificate (if applicable) – To verify that all electrical work has been completed and tested to the required standard.
- Gas Inspection Record (if applicable) – Ensuring all gas installations meet safety regulations.
- Engineer’s Reports (if applicable) – For elements such as foundations, retaining walls, or other engineered structures.
- Third-Party Warranties or Guarantees – For example, door and window glazing, or specialist installations.
- Insurance Backed Guarantees (IBGs) for below-ground or basement areas – To protect against issues such as tanking or waterproofing failures.
- Insurance Backed Guarantees (IBGs) for flat roofs – These are often a requirement to ensure long-term coverage for roofing systems.
If any of these documents are missing or incomplete, the final certificate cannot be issued — meaning your project completion could be delayed.
When to Provide Documentation
Many developers leave the submission of documentation until the very last minute, often at the point when they receive their Building Control Final Completion Certificate. While this might seem logical, it can actually create significant delays.
At Compariqo, we strongly recommend that as much documentation as possible is provided to your account manager at least one month before your scheduled completion date.
This early submission allows your account manager to:
- Review the documentation for accuracy and completeness.
- Identify any missing items well in advance of completion.
- Prepare your file so it is ready for immediate submission to the underwriting insurer once the final piece of information — usually the Building Control Final Completion Certificate — is received.
By taking this proactive approach, as soon as you provide the last required document, your complete file can be sent promptly to the underwriting insurer for review. This means your final certificate/s can be issued without unnecessary delays.
What Happens if You Submit Documents Late
If you wait to send all documentation until after completion, there is a high chance of delays. Here’s why:
- Review Period – The underwriting insurer needs time to review your file, which can take several days or even weeks, especially during busy periods.
- Follow-Up Requests – If any documents are missing or incorrect, the review process stops until those issues are resolved.
- Project Bottlenecks – Delays in issuing the final certificate can halt legal completions, disrupt funding timelines, and create additional stress for all parties involved.
By providing documentation early, you remove these barriers and ensure a smoother process at the most critical stage of your project.
Top Tips to Avoid Delays
Here are some simple steps you can take to keep your project on track:
- Start early – Begin gathering required documentation well before your scheduled completion date.
- Check requirements carefully – Confirm with your structural warranty provider exactly what they will need, as requirements can vary.
- Use a checklist – Keep a running list of required documents and update it as you progress through the project.
- Communicate regularly – Stay in touch with your account manager to ensure they are aware of your project timelines and any potential issues.
- Submit in stages – Don’t wait until the last minute. Send what you have as soon as it’s ready.
How Compariqo Supports You
At Compariqo, we understand how important final certificates are to your project’s success. Our team works closely with you throughout the process to make sure everything runs smoothly.
By providing documentation early, you give your account manager the time they need to prepare your file and ensure there are no last-minute surprises. This means when completion day arrives, your project can move forward without delay.
In Summary
Avoiding slow final certificates comes down to planning and preparation. By understanding the documentation required and working closely with your warranty provider, you can prevent unnecessary setbacks and keep your project on schedule.
Don’t let missing paperwork hold you back. Start gathering your documentation today and speak to your Compariqo account manager for support and guidance.
Ready to keep your next project on track?
Contact us today to find out how we can help streamline your structural warranty process.