How do I make a claim?

Complete the claim for repairs form below. Depending on the claim, we may need to send a surveyor to inspect the works required.

What does the £500 repairs allowance cover?

The 2025 onwards lease allows leaseholders to claim up to £500 per year towards ‘essential repairs’ which include: The load bearing framework of a building The external fabric of the building All other structural parts of a building, the roof, foundations, joists and external walls The service media within (but not exclusively serving) the premises (external wiring, sewage and water pipes)

What if there are no Trustmark approved contractors in my area?

If you’re unable to locate a Trustmark approved contractor in your area, please contact development@cornerstonehousing.net first so we can help explore your options.

Can I claim if I caused a fault leading to the repair?

Unfortunately, we’re unable to reimburse claims for accidental damage. General wear and tear, redecoration and routine servicing are also not covered, as these fall under your standard lease responsibilities for maintaining the property.

When should I use my warranty cover?

In every instance the warranty or insurance cover should be exhausted first, however any excess can be claimed by the shared owner. Please note for buildings insurance claims, the excess is £1,000 so depending on your repairs allowance balance, the excess may only be partially covered.

Should I complete the work before I put in the claim?

No. We will not reimburse claims for works which have already been carried out, unless it is an emergency and a qualifying repair.

Can I claim within my defect period?

Repairs will only be covered if they qualify as a ‘qualifying repair’ and are not due to a defect, though such cases are rare. Any defect related repairs must be reported to us directly so we can refer them to the developer.

Can I appeal my claim if it is not approved?

Yes. Please refer to out complaints procedure which can be found here: Make a complaint or a compliment – Cornerstone Housing

What is the expected timeline?

Acknowledge within 3 working days Confirm the claim within 20 working days

Shared Ownership Lease 2025 Onwards Repair Claim

If you hold a new shared ownership model lease, you remain responsible for internal repairs, maintenance, and any garden areas. However, the lease introduces a repairs procedure under which certain internal repairs may qualify for a contribution from us during the first ten years, up to a maximum of £500 per year. This applies only where the repairs are not already covered by the build warranty, or by any other warranty or insurance. In addition, under the new model lease, Cornerstone is responsible for the structural elements of the property for the first ten years from the lease start date.

Frequently Asked Questions

The 2025 onwards lease allows leaseholders to claim up to £500 per year towards ‘essential repairs’ which include:
- The load bearing framework of a building
- The external fabric of the building
- All other structural parts of a building, the roof, foundations, joists and external walls
- The service media within (but not exclusively serving) the premises (external wiring, sewage and water pipes)
- Acknowledge within 3 working days
- Confirm the claim within 20 working days