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 DisputesReading

Builder Disputes — Reading

Builder dispute in Reading?
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Thames Valley commuter town, Victorian suburbs, and a premium renovation market.

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Builder Disputes in Reading

Why builder disputes are specific to Reading

Reading's position as a major Thames Valley commuter town has driven significant demand for renovation and extension work. The city's Victorian and Edwardian suburbs present familiar challenges around damp and structural movement.

Reading's Victorian and Edwardian suburbs — Caversham, Earley, and Tilehurst — 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 professional population drives demand for high-specification renovations.

Common disputes in Reading

Damp proofing failure in Victorian terrace, Caversham

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

Extension foundation failure on Thames floodplain, Caversham

A rear extension near the Thames in Caversham showed significant settlement. The builder had failed to account for the high water table and soft ground conditions.

Local building types in Reading

Victorian terraces in Caversham and TilehurstEdwardian semi-detached properties in EarleyThames floodplain properties requiring specialist foundationsHigh-specification renovations for professional householdsNew-build developments on the town's outskirts

Local regulations

Reading Borough Council operates an active planning enforcement and building control service. Properties near the Thames may require Environment Agency consultation for building work.

Common Builder Disputes in Reading