The City of Winkler is lobbying the provincial government concerning the new Home Warranty Program, which they say favours bigger companies.

Winkler Mayor Martin Harder explains the new regulations are likely the answer to issues that had arisen in larger centres like Winnipeg.

"It's not that we're opposed to having a warranty on a new home, however, if you take a look at the exemptions, self-builders are exempt, Hutterite colonies, and quite frankly start-up construction companies are not exempt."

The program seems to favour larger companies, Harder says, while putting the strain on small start-up companies who must pay "an arm and a leg" to gain access to the warranty.

"It's much more efficient to take part in the program if you're doing 20 houses than if you're doing one or two a year," Harder says.

The planning committee expressed concern regarding the legislation, calling it a rushed and unprepared roll-out, with many key questions unresolved.

The city is lobbying the provincial government and AMM to see if policy changes can be made to lessen the red tape associated with the new rules.

The mandatory New Home Warranty Protection Act comes into effect January 1, 2018.

The act ensures newly-constructed homes in Manitoba are protected against defects, and applies to all new dwellings including condominiums.

It leaves residents with three options: hire a contractor or builder within the program, take out the warranty yourself, or notify the Province that you won't be participating in the warranty program.

However, without the New Home Warranty Protection, owners wouldn't be allowed to sell the home for seven years.

The mandatory warranty would cover defects in materials, labour, and design for one year.

Violations and defects in electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, exterior cladding, caulking, windows, doors, and building envelope, including defects resulting in water penetration are covered for two years.

Major structural components are covered for seven years.