Tarion Warranty & Closing Costs for New Homes, Explained
Smart Buyer Guides · ~6 min read · Updated 2026
Tarion is Ontario's new-home warranty administrator, and understanding what it covers — plus what closing costs to expect — is essential planning for any Windrose purchase. Here's a practical summary; your lawyer and Tarion's own resources should be your authoritative sources.
What Tarion covers
| Coverage tier | Duration | Covers |
|---|---|---|
| Workmanship & materials | 1 year | Defects in work and materials |
| Major systems | 2 years | Electrical, plumbing, heating; water penetration |
| Major structural defects | 7 years | Structural integrity issues |
| Deposit protection | Ongoing | Deposits up to program limits |
| Delayed-closing compensation | Per program rules | Compensation for eligible delays |
The claims process, in brief
You submit forms to Tarion at specific milestones (30-day, year-end, second-year, and structural). The builder addresses items within their period; Tarion adjudicates disputes. Keep records of everything — photographs, correspondence, and dates matter.
The Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI)
Before you take possession, you'll complete a Pre-Delivery Inspection with the builder. This is where you document existing defects. Take it seriously — bring a checklist, allow enough time, and document every item in writing. Anything not recorded is harder to claim later.
Closing costs to plan for
Land transfer tax notes
Caledon is not within the City of Toronto, so no additional municipal land transfer tax applies — only Ontario's provincial LTT. First-time buyers may qualify for the Ontario land transfer tax refund; your lawyer will confirm eligibility.
Delayed closing
If the builder delays closing beyond the dates specified in the APS, Tarion's delayed-closing compensation may apply. Rules vary by home type — read the specific delayed-closing addendum in your APS with your lawyer.
For deposits specifically
See /blog/deposit-structures-pre-construction-ontario for more on deposit protection and staging.
Frequently asked questions
- Do all Windrose homes have Tarion coverage?
- Yes — all new homes built by Tarion-registered builders in Ontario are covered. Windrose is being built by Yorkwood Homes and Laurier Homes, both registered.
- How much are closing costs typically?
- Land transfer tax alone can be several thousand dollars on a mid-range Caledon home; total closing costs vary. Your lawyer will provide a detailed estimate.
- Can I make Tarion claims after moving in?
- Yes — at 30 days, year-end, second-year, and structural windows per program rules. Follow the timelines carefully.
- What isn't covered by Tarion?
- Wear and tear, damage caused by owner actions, and normal shrinkage or settling generally aren't covered. Read Tarion's guide directly for full exclusions.
- Is a home warranty transferable if I sell?
- The Tarion warranty follows the home for the full coverage period, not the original owner — subsequent owners benefit from remaining coverage.
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