Builder Included Appliances: What You Really Get in a New Home

When you buy a new home, the term builder included appliances, standard fixtures and equipment provided by the home builder as part of the base price. Also known as builder standard appliances, it usually means a basic oven, stove, dishwasher, and sometimes a refrigerator or microwave—nothing fancy, just enough to meet minimum code. But here’s the catch: what’s "included" isn’t always what you think. Many buyers assume they’re getting a full set of premium appliances, only to find out later that the fridge is a 15-year-old model from a discount brand, or the dishwasher has no drying cycle. This isn’t deception—it’s standard practice in new construction. Builders keep costs low by offering the bare minimum, then upselling upgrades at closing.

Understanding what’s in the base package helps you avoid sticker shock. A builder upgrade, additional features or higher-quality items offered for extra cost during new home construction might sound tempting, but not all upgrades are worth it. For example, upgrading from a basic dishwasher to a quiet, energy-efficient one might save you money on bills and noise over time. But paying $2,000 extra for a stainless steel fridge that matches the cabinetry? That’s mostly about aesthetics, not function. The same goes for appliances like garbage disposals, range hoods, or built-in microwaves—these are rarely included unless you pay up.

It’s also important to know that new home appliances, factory-installed equipment provided by the home builder as part of the purchase often come with limited warranties. If something breaks within the first year, the builder handles it. After that? You’re on your own. That’s why checking the brand and model before signing is critical. Some builders use generic parts that are hard to replace or repair. Others partner with known brands like Whirlpool or GE, which have better service networks. Ask for the exact model numbers in writing—don’t settle for "high-end" or "premium" labels.

Don’t forget that location matters too. In colder climates, builders might skip energy-efficient features to cut costs, even if they’re required elsewhere. In the UK, where insulation and heating efficiency are tightly regulated, you’re more likely to get decent appliances—but still not luxury ones. The real value isn’t in the fridge or washer—it’s in what’s hidden: proper wiring, venting, and plumbing rough-ins that let you upgrade later without tearing out walls. That’s the part you can’t easily fix after move-in.

So what should you focus on? First, verify which appliances are truly included. Second, check if the models are repairable and parts are available. Third, ask if the builder allows you to bring in your own appliances—if they do, you can save thousands. Many people end up replacing builder-grade appliances within a year anyway. Why pay for them at all?

Below, you’ll find real guides from homeowners and contractors who’ve been through this exact process. Some saved money by walking away from upgrades. Others learned the hard way when their "included" dishwasher broke six months after closing. These aren’t theoretical tips—they’re lessons from people who lived it. Whether you’re buying a new build in London, Manchester, or anywhere else in the UK, this collection gives you the facts you need before you sign anything.