Rockledge New‑Build Warranties: What They Cover

Buying a new construction home in Rockledge and wondering what the builder warranty really covers? You are not alone. Even brand-new homes can have items to fix, and knowing how your warranty works helps you protect your investment. In this guide, you will learn what most Florida builders cover, what they exclude, how claims usually go, and the key steps to take before your 1‑year mark. Let’s dive in.

How new-build warranties work in Rockledge

Most Florida builders use a tiered structure often called 1/2/10. These timeframes are industry norms, not state-mandated rules. Your actual coverage depends on the builder’s written warranty, so always read the contract language closely.

1‑year workmanship and materials

The 1‑year period usually covers workmanship and materials. Common items include:

• Paint, trim, grout, caulking, cabinetry alignment, and flooring defects caused by installation.
• Doors or locks that do not operate properly, or interior drywall cracks due to poor finishing.
• Correction of items listed on your final punch list at walkthrough.

During this year, you should document issues early and submit them in writing to the builder’s warranty contact.

2‑year major systems

The 2‑year period often covers major systems installed by the builder, such as:

• HVAC equipment and installation issues, including airflow or condensate drain problems.
• Plumbing systems like pipes, drains, and fixtures if installation defects are the cause.
• Electrical wiring, panels, and breakers when issues stem from installation.

Some builders may include certain systems differently or rely on separate manufacturer warranties for appliances.

10‑year structural protection

Structural coverage typically protects against defects in load‑bearing components that affect the home’s structural integrity or habitability. Examples include:

• Foundation failures or major structural movement.
• Significant framing failure or roof structure issues that impact safety.

Structural language is often tightly defined. Cosmetic cracking or normal shrinkage is usually excluded from this tier.

Manufacturer warranties

Appliances, windows, roof materials, and HVAC equipment typically carry separate manufacturer warranties. These often require product registration shortly after move‑in. Keep your manuals, serial numbers, and proof of registration together with your builder warranty documents.

What is usually excluded

Every builder writes exclusions into the warranty. Common items you should not expect to be covered include:

• Normal wear and tear, hairline drywall cracks, and minor trim gaps from settling or shrinkage.
• Damage from homeowner actions, alterations, or missed maintenance, such as not replacing HVAC filters.
• Weather events like hurricanes, flooding, or sinkholes. These are generally insurance matters, not warranty coverage.
• Pest or termite damage unless there is a specific treatment and warranty provided.
• Accelerated corrosion from coastal conditions unless the warranty specifically covers it.
• Code upgrades or retrofits required after your home was built.
• Cosmetic issues that fall within “reasonable tolerances” set by the warranty.

Your Rockledge claims timeline

Use this simple timeline to stay ahead of deadlines and keep your home in top shape.

• Final walkthrough, pre‑closing: Create a photographed punch list. Ask the builder to acknowledge it in writing with target repair dates. Confirm the warranty start date, which is often the closing date or certificate of occupancy date.
• 30–60 days after move‑in: Re‑check HVAC performance under different settings and document any early system issues.
• 6 months: Inspect for settling, drainage performance during heavy rain, plumbing leaks, and roof drainage. Space Coast storms can reveal issues that are not obvious on dry days.
• 11–12 months: Schedule an independent home inspection before your 1‑year deadline. Deliver any claims in writing with photos and video.

How warranty claims typically proceed

When something is not right, move fast and keep records. Here is the common workflow:

1. Notify the builder in writing. Use the builder’s warranty portal or email, and attach date‑stamped photos or short videos. Describe the location, the symptom, when you first noticed it, and who was present.
2. Builder inspection and scheduling. The builder or warranty administrator usually inspects, then sets a repair date. Keep all emails, texts, and work orders.
3. Follow up in writing. If repairs fall behind schedule or the fix does not resolve the issue, document it and request a new plan with dates.
4. Escalation. Many warranties specify mediation or arbitration. Florida’s Chapter 558 sets pre‑suit notice and alternative dispute resolution steps for construction defect disputes. If you reach a standstill, consult a professional who understands Chapter 558 procedures before taking legal action.

Rockledge walkthrough checklist

Use this focused Space Coast checklist during your final walkthrough and again at key milestones.

Exterior and envelope

• Roof surfaces, flashing, and roof penetrations; verify proper drainage during rain.
• Stucco or siding for hairline cracks, delamination, or paint issues.
• Windows and doors: seals, caulking, smooth operation, and signs of water infiltration.
• Garage door operation and safety sensors.
• Driveway or patio slab cracks beyond typical hairline settling.
• Lot grading and drainage to ensure water flows away from the foundation.
• Irrigation system performance and overspray that can stain or damage exterior finishes.
• Pool or spa surfaces, decking, coping, and equipment if applicable.

Foundation and structure

• Visible cracks in the foundation or block walls. Note size and location.
• Interior doors that suddenly stick, which can hint at movement.
• Significant uneven floors or stair tread issues.

Interiors and finishes

• Drywall cracks, nail pops, paint coverage, tile lippage, grout cracks.
• Cabinet alignment and hardware operation.
• Flooring gaps, buckling, or finish defects.

Systems

• HVAC: thermostat calibration, airflow in all rooms, condensate drain function.
• Plumbing: check under sinks for leaks, test water pressure and hot water delivery, and run drains.
• Electrical: test outlets and switches, confirm GFCI and AFCI protection, and verify panel labeling.
• Appliances: confirm operation, record serial numbers, and complete manufacturer registrations.

Safety devices

• Smoke and carbon monoxide detector operation.
• Garage door sensor alignment and handrail attachments.

Coastal considerations

• Sealants around penetrations, hose bibs, and AC lines.
• Early signs of corrosion on exterior fixtures, fasteners, or AC equipment.

Warranty vs insurance in Brevard County

It helps to separate warranty and insurance paths. Warranties are for defects in workmanship, materials, systems, or structure. Insurance addresses damage from covered events like storms or accidental water leaks. If a hurricane or flood causes damage, you will typically file an insurance claim, not a warranty claim.

Smart recordkeeping that pays off

Good documentation makes claims smoother and faster.

• Keep a centralized digital folder with photos, videos, emails, work orders, permits, your certificate of occupancy, appliance manuals, and the written warranty.
• Use date‑stamped photos and full‑length video walkthroughs while narrating the issues you see.
• Send formal notices both by email and, when important, by certified mail. Request read receipts.
• Keep a simple maintenance log for filter changes, system service, and pest treatments.
• Ask the builder to acknowledge reported defects and target repair dates in writing.

Before your 1‑year mark: must‑do items

• Read the builder’s written warranty at closing and note the exact start date and definitions for each tier.
• Register all manufacturer warranties for appliances, windows, and HVAC equipment.
• Schedule an independent inspection at about 11 months.
• Submit final 1‑year workmanship claims in writing before the deadline.
• Check HOA guidelines before repairs or alterations that could affect warranty obligations.

Local resources to know

• City of Rockledge Building Division and Brevard County Building & Permitting for permit records and inspection histories.
• Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR) for contractor licensing and consumer guidance.
• Local independent inspectors and trade specialists familiar with Space Coast conditions.
• Manufacturer customer service for appliances, windows, roofing, and HVAC products.
• Professionals who understand Florida Chapter 558 procedures if a dispute escalates.

Buying new in Rockledge should feel exciting, not stressful. When you understand how your warranty works and keep clear records, you give yourself the best chance at quick, clean fixes and long‑term peace of mind. If you want a local guide to help you navigate builder walkthroughs, timelines, and next steps, reach out to Ken Burningham for practical, on‑your‑side support.

FAQs

Do Florida builders have to give a 10‑year structural warranty?

• No. Ten‑year structural coverage is common, but it is not mandated statewide. Always rely on the builder’s written warranty for exact terms.

When should I schedule an independent inspection for a Rockledge new build?

• Schedule one at the final walkthrough if possible, then again around 11 months to capture items before the 1‑year workmanship deadline.

What if my builder disputes a claim or delays repairs?

• Keep everything in writing, escalate per the warranty, and be aware that Florida’s Chapter 558 sets pre‑suit notice steps for defect disputes if you need to move beyond negotiation.

Does my homeowner’s insurance cover issues a warranty does not?

• Often yes for storm, hurricane, or accidental damage. Warranty coverage addresses defects in workmanship, materials, systems, or structure.

How do I document warranty issues effectively in Rockledge?

• Use date‑stamped photos, short videos, and written notices that include location, symptoms, and when you first noticed the issue. Keep a centralized digital folder of all records.

When do new‑build warranty clocks usually start?

• Most warranties start at closing or the certificate of occupancy date. Confirm the exact start date with your builder and set reminders for key deadlines.