Pre-construction guide
Tarion warranty and your protections
What Ontario’s new home warranty covers, and for how long.
Warranty coverage
Every new home in Ontario must be enrolled with Tarion. Coverage includes a one-year warranty on workmanship and materials, a two-year warranty on items such as water penetration through the building envelope and electrical, plumbing and heating systems, and a seven-year warranty on major structural defects.
Delayed closing compensation
If a builder delays your closing or occupancy without following the rules for extensions, you may be entitled to compensation for costs such as living expenses, up to Tarion’s limit.
Check the builder
Before buying, look up the builder on the Ontario Builder Directory to see their history, number of homes built and warranty claims.
General information only, reviewed October 2026. Confirm the details for your purchase with your lawyer.