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 DisputesExeter

Builder Disputes — Exeter

Builder dispute in Exeter?
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Historic city, growing university town, and a distinctive renovation market.

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Builder Disputes in Exeter

Why builder disputes are specific to Exeter

Exeter combines a historic city centre with a rapidly growing residential market driven by the University of Exeter. The city's historic properties require specialist knowledge, while new developments on the outskirts introduce new-build defect claims.

Exeter's historic city centre contains a large number of listed buildings and conservation areas. The city's Victorian and Edwardian suburbs present familiar challenges around damp and structural movement. The growing residential market introduces new-build defect claims.

Common disputes in Exeter

Damp proofing failure in Victorian terrace, St Thomas

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

Extension foundation failure, Heavitree

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

Local building types in Exeter

Listed buildings in the historic city centreVictorian terraces in St Thomas and HeavitreeStudent rental renovations near the universityNew-build developments on the city's outskirtsHigh-specification extensions in Topsham

Local regulations

Exeter City Council operates an active planning enforcement and building control service. The city has multiple conservation areas and a large number of listed buildings.

Common Builder Disputes in Exeter