CCMI Perfect Completion Guarantee: A Complete Guide

The perfect completion guarantee is one of the three mandatory guarantees under the CCMI (individual home construction contract). It’s a cornerstone of protection for homeowners. Here’s everything you need to know about this safeguard.

What Is the Perfect Completion Guarantee?

The perfect completion guarantee obliges the builder to repair defects and faults identified within a defined period after signing the deed of sale or after handover of the house.

It’s the homeowner’s first line of defense against construction imperfections, whether minor or major.

Duration of the Guarantee

The perfect completion guarantee runs for one year from the date of the deed of sale. This period therefore begins at the official signing of the deed before the notary, not from the actual handover of the house.

During this year, you have a window to report defects to the builder.

What Defects Are Covered?

The perfect completion guarantee covers:

• Visible faults: cracks, peeling paint, poorly closing doors, cracked tiling
• Fitting defects: badly installed fixtures, poorly laid finishes
• Minor functional defects: a heating system needing adjustment, radiators not heating properly
• Cosmetic issues: missing finishes, rough surfaces, marks left from the build
• Small construction imperfections: poorly sealed joints, faulty sanitary fittings

What Defects Are NOT Covered?

The perfect completion guarantee does not include:

• Serious hidden defects (covered by the ten-year structural warranty)
• Major structural issues
• Normal wear and tear from use
• Damage caused by the homeowner after signing the deed
• Defects resulting from misuse or inadequate maintenance

How to Report a Defect

For your claim to be valid, you must:

1. Notify the builder in writing (registered letter with acknowledgement of receipt, or certified email) within the one-year period
2. Describe the defects precisely
3. Attach photographs showing the faults
4. Provide your address so the builder can arrange access
5. Suggest dates for the repairs, where possible

Notification must be sent before the one-year deadline expires, otherwise you lose the right to invoke this guarantee.

The Builder’s Obligations

Once notified, the builder must:

• Carry out repairs within a reasonable time (generally 10 to 30 days)
• Perform the work free of charge, at no cost to the homeowner
• Restore the property to its original condition after repairs
• Use matching materials for the corrections

The builder cannot refuse repairs unless the defects clearly result from your improper use of the property.

What If the Builder Refuses to Make Repairs?

If the builder refuses to fix the defects or fails to respond within a reasonable time, you can:

1. Send a formal notice by registered letter with acknowledgement of receipt
2. Contact the financial guarantee provider (surety) if the builder defaults
3. Take legal action before the competent court
4. Consult a mediator or conciliator to attempt an amicable resolution
5. Have a third party carry out the repairs and seek reimbursement of costs from the builder

How It Differs From Other Guarantees

Perfect Completion Guarantee: 1 year from the signing of the deed, covers visible faults and minor defects.

Guarantee of Proper Functioning (Two-Year Warranty): 2 years from handover, covers equipment components (heating, electrics, etc.).

Ten-Year Structural Warranty: 10 years from acceptance of the works, covers serious defects affecting the structure’s soundness or function.

Key Points to Remember

• The deadline starts at the signing of the deed, not at handover
• You must notify defects in writing within the one-year period
• Repairs must be carried out free of charge by the builder
• This guarantee complements, but does not replace, the other two mandatory guarantees
• Keep all documents relating to your correspondence with the builder
• Take dated photographs of any defects found

Practical Advice

At the Signing of the Deed: Carry out a thorough inspection of your house and draw up a detailed snagging report.

During the Year: Inspect your home regularly and document any defect found with dated photos and notes.

Before Filing a Claim: Check your CCMI contract for specific conditions and keep all sale documents.

In Case of Dispute: Don’t hesitate to call on a property law professional or a mediator to defend your rights.

Conclusion

The CCMI perfect completion guarantee is a fundamental right protecting your property investment during the year following your purchase. By knowing your rights and acting promptly to report defects, you ensure your home meets the expected quality standards. Don’t hesitate to contact the builder as soon as you spot a problem, and keep all evidence of your correspondence for effective follow-up.