Buying new construction in Berthoud should feel exciting, not confusing. Yet warranty fine print, timelines, and who to call when something goes wrong can raise a lot of questions. You want clear answers so you can protect your home and your budget. In this guide, you’ll learn what typical new-construction warranties cover, how the common 1-2-10 model works, what steps to take before and after closing, and where to get help in Berthoud and Larimer County. Let’s dive in.
What a new-home warranty covers
New homes usually come with a mix of warranty protections. The details live in your contract and the builder’s written warranty documents, so always read those closely.
Builder express warranty
Most builders offer a written warranty that covers workmanship and materials for defined periods. Coverage and timelines vary by builder. The written warranty controls, so ask for it early and confirm it is part of your purchase contract.
Implied warranties in Colorado
Implied legal protections, such as habitability, may apply even if they are not in writing. The scope and enforcement depend on Colorado law and your contract. Many builder agreements outline required steps for resolving disputes, so review those terms before you sign.
Manufacturer and third-party plans
Appliances, HVAC systems, windows, and roofing often carry separate manufacturer warranties. These usually require product registration and routine maintenance to stay valid. Some builders also include or offer a third-party warranty plan managed by a warranty company. Those plans follow the warranty provider’s rules and definitions.
The 1-2-10 model explained
You will often hear people use the 1-2-10 shorthand. It describes common industry timelines for different parts of the home. The actual coverage you receive depends on your builder’s written warranty.
- Year 1: Workmanship and materials. Builders typically address cosmetic or minor defects and finish work during the first year.
- Year 2: Major systems. Plumbing, electrical, mechanical, and HVAC are often covered against defects in installation for two years.
- Year 10: Structural components. Some builders and third-party plans cover defined structural defects for up to ten years.
These are industry norms, not legal requirements. Always confirm exact time limits, definitions, and exclusions in your documents.
What is not covered
All warranties have exclusions. Common carve-outs include:
- Normal wear and tear or routine maintenance items.
- Damage caused by homeowner neglect or alterations.
- Weather events or other acts of God, unless the written warranty says otherwise.
- Issues caused by third-party contractors hired by the homeowner.
Manufacturer warranties may also require proof of maintenance. For example, HVAC coverage might depend on regular filter changes and service records.
Berthoud permits and inspections
Inside Berthoud town limits, the Town of Berthoud Building Department handles permits and inspections. In unincorporated areas of Larimer County, the Larimer County Building Division is the authority. Before closing, confirm that required inspections are complete and that a valid Certificate of Occupancy has been issued for your home. This confirms code compliance at the time of issuance and is a practical checkpoint before you take possession.
Certificate of Occupancy checklist
- Ask the builder for the final inspection record and Certificate of Occupancy.
- Verify that any noted corrections were addressed.
- Keep copies with your closing documents.
Your buyer timeline and steps
A simple plan will help you catch issues early and get repairs done within coverage windows.
Before you sign
- Request the builder’s warranty documents and a warranty summary. Confirm they are part of your contract.
- Ask if coverage is provided by the builder, a third-party plan, or both. Confirm transfer rules if you plan to sell within a few years.
- Review dispute-resolution clauses. Many builder contracts require mediation or arbitration.
- Check the builder’s reputation and completed homes in Berthoud or Larimer County. Note how they handle warranty requests.
During construction
- Schedule phased inspections with an experienced home inspector. Pre-drywall and mechanical rough-in inspections can surface issues earlier when they are easier to fix.
- Create a file for all product manuals, warranty cards, and maintenance requirements. Save invoices for any approved upgrades or changes.
Final walkthrough
- Complete a thorough walkthrough with a detailed punch list. Photograph items, date-stamp images, and note room locations.
- Confirm in writing how and when punch-list items will be corrected and who will verify completion.
- Verify inspection status and the Certificate of Occupancy before closing.
After move-in
- Follow maintenance schedules from both the builder and manufacturers.
- Report issues quickly and in the format the warranty requires. Many programs require written notice or an online submission.
- Keep a dated log of concerns, calls, emails, and on-site visits. Save copies of all communications.
Filing a claim and escalation
When something goes wrong, a clear process helps you get results faster.
Start with the builder
- Send a written description of the issue, when you first noticed it, and photos or short videos.
- Reference the relevant warranty section if you can. Include your address, lot number, and contact details.
- Request a timeline for inspection and repair. Follow up if you do not receive a response by the deadline in your documents.
When to contact local agencies
If you suspect a code violation or an unsafe condition, contact the Town of Berthoud Building Department if your home is inside town limits. For properties in unincorporated areas, contact the Larimer County Building Division. These offices can advise on inspection requests and compliance questions.
Arbitration and legal options
If a dispute is not resolved, your contract may require mediation or arbitration. Follow the steps in the dispute-resolution clause. For complex matters or structural concerns, consider consulting a Colorado attorney who handles construction and real estate issues. Colorado consumer protection resources, including the Division of Real Estate and the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Unit, also publish guidance and complaint processes.
HOAs and common areas
If your home is part of an HOA or master-planned community, common-area items such as streets, landscaping, and amenities often follow different warranty or developer obligations. Before closing, review HOA documents to understand who is responsible for common areas, when developer turnover is expected, and how warranty claims for shared elements are handled.
Berthoud climate and maintenance tips
Northern Colorado’s freeze–thaw cycles, snow loads, and seasonal moisture swings put stress on materials and grading. Protect your home and warranty coverage with simple steps.
- Maintain positive grading so water flows away from the foundation.
- Clear gutters and downspouts so meltwater does not back up near the house.
- Follow shingle, window, and siding care instructions. Keep records of seasonal maintenance.
- Confirm HVAC service schedules and filter changes to keep manufacturer coverage intact.
Smart negotiation points
Before you sign, consider asking for clarity or improvements on items that affect your peace of mind.
- Defined response and repair timelines for warranty requests.
- Clear definitions of what qualifies as a structural defect versus a cosmetic one.
- Transfer terms and fees if you plan to sell within the coverage period.
- Who performs warranty repairs, in-house crews or outside contractors.
- Any support for temporary housing if a defect makes part of the home unusable. This is uncommon, but it never hurts to ask.
Keep records: documentation checklist
Good records protect your rights and speed up repairs. Start a digital folder and update it as you go.
- Purchase contract, builder warranty, third-party plan documents.
- Product manuals, warranty cards, and proof of registration for appliances and HVAC.
- Certificate of Occupancy and inspection records.
- Punch list with photos and dates.
- Maintenance logs, receipts, and service reports.
- Written defect notices, emails, text threads, and delivery confirmations.
Who to contact in Berthoud and Colorado
- Town of Berthoud Building and Planning Department for permits, inspections, and code questions inside town limits.
- Larimer County Building Division for permitting and inspections in unincorporated county areas.
- Colorado Division of Real Estate for consumer guidance and complaint processes.
- Colorado Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Unit for consumer-protection resources and complaint information.
Final take
A clear warranty plan helps you enjoy your new Berthoud home with confidence. Get the builder’s warranty in writing, know how the 1-2-10 model typically works, confirm your Certificate of Occupancy, and keep meticulous records. Report issues quickly, follow the required claim steps, and use local and state resources when needed.
If you want a steady guide at your side from contract to keys, reach out to Jane Kraemer. As a local, boutique agent with new-construction experience and advanced training, Jane can help you interpret warranty terms, plan inspections, and negotiate a smoother path to closing. Schedule Your Free Market Consultation.
FAQs
What does a Berthoud builder warranty usually cover?
- Most builder warranties cover workmanship and materials for the first year, key systems for a second year, and defined structural components for longer periods. Always confirm exact terms in writing.
How does the 1-2-10 warranty model work for new homes?
- Year 1 focuses on finishes and workmanship, year 2 often covers major systems, and structural coverage can extend up to ten years depending on the program. Your written warranty controls.
Who handles permits and inspections for new homes in Berthoud?
- The Town of Berthoud Building Department covers homes inside town limits, while the Larimer County Building Division handles unincorporated areas. Ask for the Certificate of Occupancy before closing.
What steps should I take at my final walkthrough?
- Build a written punch list, take dated photos, confirm correction timelines in writing, and verify that the Certificate of Occupancy has been issued.
How do I file a warranty claim with my builder?
- Submit a written notice with a clear description, dates, and photos. Keep copies, track response deadlines, and follow the claim method required by your warranty documents.
What if my builder contract requires arbitration for disputes?
- Many contracts do. Follow the stated process for mediation or arbitration, and consider consulting a Colorado attorney for advice on your options.
How do HOAs affect new-construction warranties?
- Common-area items often follow separate developer or HOA obligations. Review HOA documents to see how those claims are handled and when developer turnover occurs.
