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 DisputesPortsmouth

Builder Disputes — Portsmouth

Builder dispute in Portsmouth?
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Island city, Victorian terraces, and a distinctive builder dispute profile.

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Builder Disputes in Portsmouth

Why builder disputes are specific to Portsmouth

Portsmouth's unique geography as an island city creates specific building challenges. The city's dense Victorian terraced housing — some of the most densely packed in the UK — presents specific challenges around party walls, shared drainage, and limited access.

Portsmouth's Victorian terraces in Southsea, Fratton, and Buckland are among the most densely packed in the UK. This creates specific challenges for builders: limited access, shared party walls, and complex drainage systems. The city's large student population at the University of Portsmouth drives demand for rapid-turnover renovation work.

Common disputes in Portsmouth

Party wall damage in Victorian terrace, Southsea

A builder working on a Southsea Victorian terrace damaged the shared party wall during an extension. The neighbouring property suffered structural cracking and the builder disputed liability.

Damp proofing failure in Victorian terrace, Fratton

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

Local building types in Portsmouth

Victorian terraces in Southsea and FrattonStudent rental renovations near the universityNaval and defence sector commercial buildingsNew-build developments on Portsea IslandSuburban extensions in Cosham and Drayton

Local regulations

Portsmouth City Council operates an active planning enforcement and building control service. The Party Wall Act 1996 is particularly relevant in Portsmouth's densely packed Victorian terraces.

Common Builder Disputes in Portsmouth