If you are delivering a new-build scheme in the UK, the choice of structural warranty provider influences lender acceptance, sales rates, funding security and long-term risk exposure. Premier Guarantee is one of the most recognised names in the market, with strong brand search volume and widespread lender acceptance.
What is Premier Guarantee?
Premier Guarantee is a structural warranty provider offering 10-year insurance-backed cover for new build homes, conversions and certain commercial developments across the UK. It operates as part of the MDIS group, which provides backing and market presence that many developers consider when assessing provider stability.
A premier guarantee warranty is designed to protect against major structural defects following completion. It follows the standard UK structural warranty model, with an initial builder obligation period followed by insurance-backed structural cover.
For developers unfamiliar with the brand, Premier Guarantee sits alongside NHBC, LABC Warranty, Build-Zone, ICW and Protek in the UK structural warranty market. It is widely recognised and frequently specified in funding agreements and sales contracts.
Is Premier Guarantee still operating?
Yes. Premier Guarantee remains active in the UK market and continues to provide structural warranties across residential and mixed-use sectors. As part of the MDIS group, it operates within an established insurance framework.
Brand familiarity is important in this sector. Developers and lenders look for stability, insurer backing and ongoing claims support. Premier Guarantee continues to write new policies and manage existing schemes.
What type of projects does Premier Guarantee cover?
A premier guarantee warranty can be arranged for a broad range of developments, including:
- New-build houses
- Apartment blocks
- Conversions and change-of-use projects
- Affordable and social housing schemes
- Mixed-use developments
- Certain commercial projects
Premier Guarantee is particularly active in medium-sized residential developments and apartment schemes, although suitability depends on technical complexity and underwriting profile.
As with all structural warranty providers, acceptance depends on factors such as construction type, ground conditions and procurement route. Early engagement is recommended to avoid delays.
Is Premier Guarantee lender-approved?
Yes. Premier Guarantee is accepted by mainstream UK mortgage lenders.
This is the first reassurance most developers require. A structural warranty that is not lender-approved can restrict buyer mortgages and undermine sales. Premier Guarantee meets UK Finance requirements and is widely recognised across the lending market.
For private sale developments, build-to-sell apartments and schemes intended for refinancing, lender approval is non-negotiable. A premier guarantee warranty provides that recognition.
What does Premier Guarantee cover?
Like most UK structural warranties, Premier Guarantee operates on a two-stage structure.
Years 1–2: builder obligation period
During the first two years after completion, the developer is responsible for rectifying defects that breach the provider’s technical standards. This covers certain workmanship-related issues and defined non-structural defects, subject to policy terms.
If the developer fails to address valid defects, the warranty provider may intervene depending on circumstances.
Years 3–10: structural insurance period
From year three onwards, the insurance-backed structural cover applies. This typically includes:
- Foundations and substructure
- Load-bearing walls and structural frames
- Structural floors and beams
- Roof structure
- Structural waterproofing
Minor cosmetic defects, wear and tear and maintenance-related issues are excluded.
For a detailed explanation of scope and exclusions, see our guide to what a structural warranty covers.
Understanding these parameters is vital before selecting any provider. A premier guarantee structural warranty review should focus on technical standards, inspection regime and clarity of exclusions rather than headline marketing.
How do I make a Premier Guarantee warranty claim?
The claims process typically follows the standard structural warranty format.
In years 1–2, defects are usually addressed by the builder. The homeowner must notify the developer in writing and allow an opportunity to remedy the issue.
From years 3–10, the insurance-backed period applies. Claims are submitted directly to the warranty provider. The process generally includes:
- Written notification of the defect
- Submission of supporting documentation and photographs
- Inspection by a surveyor
- Assessment against policy terms
- Decision and remedy
Time limits apply. Defects must be reported within the warranty period.
If Buildsafe arranged the policy, we can assist in clarifying the correct process and supporting communication if disputes arise.
Premier Guarantee vs NHBC
Developers frequently compare premier guarantee vs NHBC when selecting a provider. Both are recognised, lender-approved brands with national coverage, but there are differences worth considering.
Lender acceptance
Both providers are accepted by mainstream UK mortgage lenders.
Market positioning
NHBC is often perceived as dominant among large volume housebuilders. Premier Guarantee is active across small to medium-sized developers and apartment schemes, with competitive positioning in certain sectors.
Cost and flexibility
Pricing varies by scheme. In some cases, Premier Guarantee may offer competitive terms for mid-sized developments or non-standard projects. In others, NHBC may be more aligned.
Inspection and technical process
Both providers operate structured technical review and inspection processes. The experience for developers depends more on scheme complexity and documentation quality than on brand alone.
If you are assessing NHBC alternatives, Premier Guarantee is frequently included in comparisons alongside ICW, LABC Warranty, and others. See our guide to building warranty providers compared for a broader overview.
A balanced premier guarantee structural warranty review should compare not only cost, but technical standards, inspection approach and insurer backing.
How much does a Premier Guarantee warranty cost?
There is no fixed price list. The cost of a premier guarantee warranty depends on:
- Development value
- Construction cost
- Number of units
- Building height and type
- Ground conditions
- Construction method
- Claims history
Apartment blocks and complex construction methods may attract higher premiums than standard low-rise housing.
Rather than focusing solely on price, developers should consider:
- Excess levels
- Scope of cover
- Inspection regime
- Insurer strength
- Lender requirements
Buildsafe can obtain a Premier Guarantee quote as part of a multi-provider comparison. You can also use our warranty cost calculator to gain an indicative range before full underwriting.
How to get a Premier Guarantee warranty through Buildsafe
Buildsafe is an independent broker. We are not tied to Premier Guarantee or any single provider.
When you submit details to Buildsafe:
- You complete one application
- We approach Premier Guarantee and other leading providers
- We compare terms, pricing and technical alignment
- We recommend the most suitable option for your project
If Premier Guarantee is the right solution, we will advise accordingly. If another provider is better suited, we will say so.
This independence ensures that your decision is based on project needs, not provider preference.
If you are exploring NHBC alternatives or comparing multiple brands, our role is to provide structured, objective guidance.
How does this guide differ from our alternative page?
You may have seen our page discussing Premier Guarantee as an alternative provider. That content focuses on switchers and comparative positioning.
This guide addresses the product itself. It explains what a premier guarantee warranty covers, how it operates, and how it fits within the UK structural warranty market.
Understanding both the product and the wider market context ensures you make an informed decision.
Compare Premier Guarantee properly before deciding
A structural warranty is not a tick-box requirement. It is a funding tool, a sales enabler and a long-term risk management product.
Premier Guarantee offers:
- 10-year structural cover
- Mainstream lender approval
- Backing as part of the MDIS group
- Coverage across residential and mixed-use sectors
However, comparison remains fundamental. The right provider depends on scheme type, risk profile, buyer market and funding route.
To compare Premier Guarantee against other providers and secure competitive terms, get in touch with Buildsafe for a free multi-provider quote.
