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 DisputesCheltenham

Builder Disputes — Cheltenham

Builder dispute in Cheltenham?
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Builder Disputes in Cheltenham

Why builder disputes are specific to Cheltenham

Cheltenham's extraordinary Regency architecture — some of the finest in the UK — creates a distinctive builder dispute landscape. The city's conservation areas and listed buildings require specialist knowledge.

Cheltenham's Regency terraces and villas in Montpellier, Pittville, and the Promenade require specialist knowledge of period construction techniques. Lime mortar, original sash windows, and period architectural features all require careful handling. The city's conservation areas mean that building work requires planning consent for many alterations.

Common disputes in Cheltenham

Inappropriate materials in conservation area, Montpellier

A builder repointed a Regency terrace in Montpellier using cement mortar rather than lime, causing moisture to be trapped in the masonry and leading to significant damp penetration.

Unauthorised alterations to listed building, Pittville

A builder working on a listed property in Pittville replaced original sash windows with modern uPVC units without listed building consent. The council issued an enforcement notice.

Local building types in Cheltenham

Regency terraces and villas in Montpellier and PittvilleVictorian properties in Charlton Kings and LeckhamptonConservation area properties throughout the townHigh-specification renovations for affluent householdsNew-build developments on the town's outskirts

Local regulations

Cheltenham Borough Council operates an active planning enforcement and building control service. The town has extensive conservation areas and a large number of listed buildings.

Common Builder Disputes in Cheltenham