NHBRC warns consumers against fraudulent use of its logo

The NHBRC warns unsuspecting housing consumers against a letter allegedly sent out by Cosmopolitan Projects about guarantees on their completed homes.

The letter, which has an NHBRC logo, distorts the benefits that consumers are entitled to, once construction of their homes is completed. An NHBRC letterhead will have a designed header as well as names of board members at the bottom.

"We strongly urge consumers to be vigilant and confirm this by consulting with their nearest NHBRC customer care office on either our toll free number (0800 200 824) or on the Web site www.nhbrc.org.za. Alternatively, they can contact us via our social media platforms Twitter: @NHBRC Facebook: NHBRCSA.

"The NHBRC was created by an Act of Parliament (Housing Consumers Protection Measures Act 95 of 1998) to protect the rights of housing consumers against shoddy workmanship by unscrupulous home builders. As such, the NHBRC manages a Warranty Fund, which all homeowners contribute towards as part of their registering with us.

"This fund is meant to act as an insurance cover for a period of five years from occupation of the new home and covers the following:

1. One-year roof leakage; and 2. Five-year major structural defects."