Can I claim against my builder?

Yes. If your builder has failed to complete work to the agreed specification, used substandard materials, or caused damage to your property, you have grounds for a claim. The first step is to document the defects and attempt to resolve the issue directly with the builder. If they are unresponsive, a specialist can help you pursue recovery.

How long do I have to claim against a builder?

Under the Limitation Act 1980, you generally have six years from the date of the breach of contract to bring a claim. However, it is always better to act sooner while evidence is fresh and the builder is still trading. If the builder has ceased trading, you may still be able to claim against their insurance or through other routes.

What can I claim for in a builder dispute?

You can claim for the cost of remedial work to put right the defects, any damage caused by the builder's work, and in some cases damages for inconvenience and distress. If the builder has disappeared with your deposit, you can claim the return of the deposit plus any additional costs incurred in engaging another contractor.

HomeBuilder DisputesAberdeen

Builder Disputes — Aberdeen

Builder dispute in Aberdeen?
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Granite city, oil industry heritage, and a distinctive builder dispute profile.

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Builder Disputes in Aberdeen

Why builder disputes are specific to Aberdeen

Aberdeen's distinctive granite architecture creates specific builder dispute risks. The city's oil industry heritage has driven significant demand for high-specification renovations.

Aberdeen's granite buildings require specialist knowledge of traditional construction techniques. Granite masonry, lime mortar, and original architectural features all require careful handling. The city's oil industry heritage has created a market for high-specification renovations, while the large student population drives demand for rapid-turnover renovation work.

Common disputes in Aberdeen

Inappropriate materials on granite building, city centre

A builder applied cement render to a granite building in Aberdeen's city centre, trapping moisture and causing severe internal damp.

Damp proofing failure in Victorian terrace, Torry

A builder installed a chemical damp proof course in a Torry Victorian terrace but failed to address the root cause. The damp returned within months.

Local building types in Aberdeen

Granite buildings in the historic city centreVictorian terraces in Torry and WoodsideHigh-specification renovations for oil industry professionalsStudent rental renovations near the universityNew-build developments on the city's outskirts

Local regulations

Aberdeen City Council operates an active planning enforcement and building control service. Scottish law applies, including the Tenements (Scotland) Act 2004.

Common Builder Disputes in Aberdeen