Advantage Code of Practice approved by Chartered Trading Standards Institute

Posted 24/08/18

Structural defects insurance provider Advantage Home Construction Insurance (AHCI) is now a fully approved code sponsor after completing the CTSI Consumer Codes Approval Scheme (CCAS) process, offering a new level of customer protection and trade accreditation for customers.

Being a CTSI code sponsor will give homeowners the reassurance that they will receive the highest level of customer service and protection on the structural defects insurance required on all new build properties.

Structural defects insurance protects homeowners against any structural defects on their new home.

The insurance is taken out by housebuilders during construction, issued to the developer on completion and passed on to the new homeowner when they purchase the property.

The approval comes at a time when structural defects insurance has come under the spotlight, following the collapse of Alpha insurance, which has resulted in many new homeowners left without vital structural defects insurance.

The CTSI approval tells new homeowners that Warrington-based Advantage understands fair trading practices and have in place all the correct documentation and insurances.

Many of the leading mortgage lenders will now only provide mortgages once structural warranties have been provided by a broker who is approved under the CTSI codes scheme.

David Sumner, Sales Director of Advantage Home Construction Insurance (AHCI), explained the importance of housebuilders choosing sector specialist providers to ensure the quality and security of policies homeowners receive.

He said: “Unfortunately, the quality of service provided in the industry differs widely.

“We know that there are companies in our industry who are not approved. We would urge anyone looking for structural defects insurance to do their homework.

“Becoming approved under the growing CCAS scheme is the result of 18-months of hard work to ensure we are providing a rigorous inspection service before any of our warranties are issued and the highest levels of customer service to our clients.”

CTSI Head of Client and Commissioning Sue Steward said: “Buying a new home can be one of the most stressful times for consumers, even without having to worry about structural issues.

“Advantage has proven themselves dedicated to ensuring the most stringent procedures are followed and consumers have the peace of mind if something goes wrong with their building.

“I’d like to welcome Advantage to the Consumer Codes Scheme, and look forward to working with them for years to come.”

With offices in Warrington, London, Birmingham and Horsham, Advantage brokers policies underwritten by industry-leading insurers with access to AA-rated insurers, giving customers reassurance when it comes to choosing the right insurance.

David added: “We are delighted to achieve this higher level of approval as it gives Advantage further credibility and sends out a strong message to our customers that we are reputable and have a solid trading history.

“And, we are able to give our customers the reassurance and confidence that we have been thoroughly checked by CTSI and have been approved to become a code sponsor.

“Being CTSI approved under the CCAS scheme isn’t just another ‘badge’ to add to a firm’s website and marketing materials, it’s an investment with great benefits. When a customer chooses a firm with a CTSI CCAS Approved logo, they know they will get a reputable, reliable firm.”

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