Scope of the Guarantee
The SERENDIA Lifetime Structural Guarantee covers structural failures in the following key areas:
- Foundation Systems - Including concrete and strip footings, designed and constructed in accordance with the National Construction Code (NCC) and Australian Standards (AS 2870). Structural failure is defined as 'Damage Category 3' or higher, as per AS 2870.
- Structural Load-Bearing Elements - Including walls, beams, and columns constructed using concrete, steel, or timber, as defined by the NCC and Australian Standards, including AS 1684 (Timber Framing Code).
- Load-Bearing Masonry and Brickwork - In accordance with AS 4773 (Masonry in Small Buildings) and other relevant standards.
- Roof Framing - Including engineered trusses and conventional framing, in compliance with AS 1684.
Eligibility and Transferability
- Applicability - This guarantee applies to new residential homes constructed by SERENDIA under a standard building contract signed after 1st of March 2025.
- Duration for Individual Owners - The guarantee remains valid for the lifetime of the original owner named in the building contract, defined as the period during which the original owner retains ownership of the property.
- Company-Owned Properties - For properties owned by a company, trust, or other legal entity, the guarantee is valid for a period of 15 years from the date of the issue of the Certificate of Occupancy & Use / Occupancy Certificate.
- Non-Transferability - The guarantee is not transferable and applies only to the original owner or entity listed in the contract. Upon sale or transfer of the property, the guarantee becomes void.
Homeowner Responsibilities
To maintain the validity of the Lifetime Structural Guarantee, homeowners must -
- Adhere to Maintenance Guidelines - Follow SERENDIA’s provided Homeowner Maintenance Guide, which outlines best practices for maintaining structural integrity.
- Adhere to the CSIRO's "Foundation Maintenance and Footing Performance: A Homeowner’s Guide," which provides critical guidance on maintaining site conditions to prevent structural issues.
- Maintain Proper Site Conditions - Ensure proper site drainage, avoid planting trees or large shrubs in close proximity to the foundation, and prevent soil erosion around the home.
- Termite Prevention - Maintain active termite prevention measures as per SERENDIA’s recommendations.
Exclusions
The following are not covered under this guarantee -
- Natural Disasters - Damage caused by events such as storms, floods, fires, earthquakes, cyclones, or other acts of nature.
- Soil Movement - Damage resulting from excessive ground movement, landslides, or subsidence unrelated to construction deficiencies.
- Owner-Induced Damage - Structural issues arising from misuse, neglect, unauthorised alterations, failure to adhere to maintenance guidelines, or failure to maintain proper drainage.
- Post-Construction Modifications - Damage resulting from landscaping changes, tree growth near the footings, installation of pools, pergolas, additional structures, or extensions made after the home's completion.
- Wear and Tear - Natural ageing, deterioration, shrinkage, or minor cracking that does not affect structural integrity, as defined in AS 2870 Appendix B.
- Pest Infestation - Any structural damage caused by termites or other pests due to lack of regular maintenance or non-compliance with termite prevention recommendations.
- Commercial or Non-Residential Use - Homes used for commercial purposes or structures not intended for residential use.
- Improper Site Conditions - Damage caused by the owner’s failure to adhere to the CSIRO Guide for site maintenance, including inadequate soil moisture management and poor drainage.
- Force Majeure Events - Any damage resulting from war, civil disturbances, or government interventions that affect the home’s structure.
Making a Claim
To lodge a claim under this guarantee, homeowners must -
- Submit a Written Request - Provide a detailed description of the structural concern via post or email to SERENDIA’s customer service team.
- Allow Property Access - Grant SERENDIA’s representatives access to inspect and assess the reported issue.
- Receive Assessment Outcome - SERENDIA will provide a written report determining whether the issue is covered under this guarantee.
- Rectification Process - If the claim is valid, SERENDIA will undertake necessary repairs within a reasonable timeframe at no cost to the homeowner.
Additional Terms
- Statutory Rights - This guarantee is in addition to any statutory warranties under Australian Consumer Law and relevant state or territory building laws.
- Amendments - SERENDIA reserves the right to update or amend the terms of this guarantee. However, changes will not affect existing contracts unless mutually agreed upon.
- Quality of Repairs - All rectification work will utilize materials and workmanship of equivalent or superior quality to the original construction.
For further details or assistance, please refer to our Homeowner Maintenance Guide or contact SERENDIA’s warranty team at hello@SERENDIA.com.au.