Tarion new home warranty in Ontario: what is covered and for how long
By Dinesh Jindal, licensed REALTOR® · Reviewed November 2026
Every new home sold by a licensed Ontario builder is covered by the Tarion statutory warranty. Builders are licensed separately by the Home Construction Regulatory Authority (HCRA).
The three warranties
| Coverage | What it covers |
|---|---|
| 1 year | Workmanship and materials, Ontario Building Code violations, fitness for habitation |
| 2 years | Water penetration, electrical, plumbing and heating systems, building envelope |
| 7 years | Major structural defects |
File on time
- 30-Day Form: within your first 30 days.
- Year-End Form: in the last 30 days of the first year.
- Second-Year Form: in the last 30 days of the second year.
Missing a window can limit what Tarion will consider. Photograph every issue and keep copies.
Deposits and delays
Tarion also protects deposits (with limits that differ for condos and freehold) and pays delayed closing compensation when a builder misses dates without proper notice.
Before you buy
Look the builder up on the HCRA Ontario Builder Directory: licence status, past warranty claims and conduct.
Quick answers
How long is the Tarion warranty?
Three layers: 1 year for workmanship, materials and Building Code violations; 2 years for water penetration, electrical, plumbing and heating systems and the building envelope; 7 years for major structural defects.
When do I file a Tarion warranty claim?
Submit the 30-Day Form within the first 30 days after you take possession and the Year-End Form in the last 30 days of your first year. A Second-Year Form covers the 2-year items.
Does Tarion compensate for closing delays?
Yes, if the builder delays without giving the notice required in the Statement of Critical Dates. Compensation is up to $7,500 in total, including $150 a day for living expenses.
General information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Programs, limits and rebates change; confirm current rules with Dinesh Jindal, your real estate lawyer and your mortgage professional before you sign.