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 DisputesYork

Builder Disputes — York

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Builder Disputes in York

Why builder disputes are specific to York

York's extraordinary concentration of historic buildings — from medieval walls to Georgian terraces — creates a distinctive builder dispute landscape. The city's conservation areas and listed buildings require specialist knowledge.

York's historic city centre is almost entirely within conservation areas, and many properties are listed. This means that building work requires specialist knowledge of historic construction techniques and materials. The city's Victorian and Edwardian suburbs — Acomb, Tang Hall, and Heworth — present more familiar challenges around damp and structural movement.

Common disputes in York

Unauthorised alterations to listed building, city centre

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

Damp proofing failure in Victorian terrace, Acomb

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

Local building types in York

Listed buildings in the historic city centreVictorian terraces in Acomb and Tang HallGeorgian properties in the city centreNew-build developments on the city's outskirtsSuburban extensions in Heworth and Fulford

Local regulations

York 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 York