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 DisputesCardiff

Builder Disputes — Cardiff

Builder dispute in Cardiff?
You are not alone.

The Welsh capital — Victorian terraces, rapid growth, and a distinctive builder dispute profile.

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Builder Disputes in Cardiff

Why builder disputes are specific to Cardiff

Cardiff's rapid growth as a capital city has driven significant demand for renovation and extension work. The city's Victorian and Edwardian suburbs present familiar challenges around damp and structural movement.

Cardiff's Victorian and Edwardian suburbs — Roath, Canton, and Pontcanna — present familiar challenges around damp and structural movement. The city's growing residential market on the outskirts introduces new-build defect claims, while the large student population at Cardiff University drives demand for rapid-turnover renovation work.

Common disputes in Cardiff

Damp proofing failure in Victorian terrace, Roath

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

Extension foundation failure, Canton

A rear extension in Canton showed significant settlement within six months. The builder had used inadequate foundations for the clay soil conditions.

Local building types in Cardiff

Victorian terraces in Roath and SplottEdwardian semi-detached properties in Canton and PontcannaStudent rental renovations in CathaysNew-build developments on the city's outskirtsCardiff Bay waterfront developments

Local regulations

Cardiff Council operates an active planning enforcement and building control service. Welsh law applies, including the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2022 for rental properties.

Common Builder Disputes in Cardiff