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 DisputesSwindon

Builder Disputes — Swindon

Builder dispute in Swindon?
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Builder Disputes in Swindon

Why builder disputes are specific to Swindon

Swindon's rapid growth as a major employment centre has driven significant demand for renovation and extension work. The city's large areas of new-build housing introduce new-build defect claims.

Swindon's large areas of new-build housing — particularly in the north and east of the town — introduce new-build defect claims involving water ingress, structural cracking, and inadequate insulation. The older Victorian and Edwardian properties in the Old Town and Rodbourne present familiar challenges around damp and structural movement.

Common disputes in Swindon

New-build defect in north Swindon estate

A recently completed house on a north Swindon estate showed cracking in external walls and water ingress through window frames. The developer's warranty insurer disputed the claim.

Damp proofing failure in Victorian terrace, Old Town

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

Local building types in Swindon

New-build estates in north and east SwindonVictorian terraces in the Old Town and RodbourneEdwardian semi-detached properties in the town centreNew-build developments on the town's outskirtsSuburban extensions in Wroughton and Highworth

Local regulations

Swindon Borough Council operates an active planning enforcement and building control service. New-build properties are typically covered by NHBC or similar warranties.

Common Builder Disputes in Swindon