In Virginia, the builder is required to provide certain warranty repairs for one year following the sale of the house. Immediately report in writing any potential code related items, such as structural problems, wet basement, and the like to the builder and to the Fairfax County Department of Environmental Management Code Enforcement Branch at 703-324-1937, TTY 711.

If the builder is unwilling to perform repairs, the Consumer Affairs Branch will investigate and mediate your complaint. You can file a complaint on-line, download a complaint form (19 KB .pdf file), or contact the Consumer Affairs Branch at 703-222-8435, TTY 711 to have a complaint form sent to you. Be sure to provide copies of all documents, receipts, and bills, along with a detailed statement of the problem and your efforts to resolve the problem with the builder.

Steps to Take Before Purchasing a New Home

Get Advice
Ask homeowners already living in the development about the builder. If no homes are occupied, find out where the builder has previously built and speak to those owners.

Review Contracts
Read the sales contract carefully. Make sure all promises and all terms of the agreement are in writing. Also read other documents such as the homeowner or condominium association documents, warranties, and the like.

Get a Professional
Consider hiring a professional home inspection firm to help identify structural and cosmetic defects.