Tarion Warranty: Aura Condos

When buying a new construction condo in Ontario, the Tarion Warranty Corporation provides protection to buyers under the New Home Warranty Program. Membership of this program is mandatory for new construction builders by offering protection to buyers of new construction projects, such as Aura Condos at College Park. Such protection includes: deposits, defects in the workmanship and materials and protection issues involving delayed closings and occupancies.

The program covers buyers for a number of items however the most important especially in this market is a deposit guarantee. With news about new construction condo projects not moving forward, it is a reassuring to know that the buyer is covered for up to $20,000 (plus interest) depending on the deposit amount given to the builder. This would come into play if the builder is unable to complete the transaction for whatever reason.

An important issue covered by The New Home Warranty Program is an inspection. Before the possession date of a new construction condo, the buyer is escorted through the unit with the inspector to point out any defects that need to be addressed by the builder. New construction condo buyers are covered for material and workmanship defects in their new condo for one year starting the date of possession. There is a 2 year and a 7 year warranty as well, which covers major defects in the unit. Inspection appointments for Aura Condos will be closer to occupancy. Occupany is anticipated for the end of next year, 2012 for the lower floors. With colour selection well underway for the lower floors, occupancy is fast approaching.

Another issue that is very important in today’s real estate market relates to delayed occupancy dates. The condo builder is legally permitted to delay a new construction project as long as they provide the buyer with proper written notice. However, if the buyer is not notified as required, the buyer is entitled to seek compensation. One thing to note is that compensation will not be paid if the delay was caused by the buyer themselves or if the delay was not under control of the builder (strikes, floods etc). Please note that if the developer finishes a new construction project early, the buyer is not required to accept it.

Buyer beware! This New Home Warranty Program applies more often to new homes and condos therefore make careful note to watch out for are properties which appear new but actually are just extensively renovated or are actually built on old foundation. The Tarion Warranty does not apply to homes which have been renovated or have been built on existing foundation. If you are unsure about whether the property is covered under Tarion Warranty, ask your Realtor. Obviiously, this will not be a concern for Aura purchasers.

Buying new construction can be a great investment and an exciting process. Make sure when buying what appears to be a new construction property, that the Tarion Warranty is indeed applicable as it was in the Aura Condos agreement.

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