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 DisputesNorwich

Builder Disputes — Norwich

Builder dispute in Norwich?
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Medieval city, Victorian suburbs, and a growing renovation market.

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Builder Disputes in Norwich

Why builder disputes are specific to Norwich

Norwich combines a historic medieval city centre with extensive Victorian and Edwardian suburbs. The city's historic properties require specialist knowledge of period construction techniques, while the growing residential market on the outskirts introduces new-build defect claims.

Norwich's historic city centre contains a large number of listed buildings and conservation areas. The city's Victorian and Edwardian suburbs — Golden Triangle, Eaton, and Thorpe Hamlet — present familiar challenges around damp and structural movement.

Common disputes in Norwich

Unauthorised alterations to listed building, city centre

A builder working on a listed property in Norwich's city centre replaced original features without listed building consent. The council issued an enforcement notice requiring restoration.

Damp proofing failure in Victorian terrace, Golden Triangle

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

Local building types in Norwich

Listed buildings in the historic city centreVictorian terraces in the Golden TriangleEdwardian semi-detached properties in EatonStudent rental renovations near UEANew-build developments on the city's outskirts

Local regulations

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

Common Builder Disputes in Norwich