Who is responsible for defects that appear after construction is finished?
Six months after our new home was completed, cracks appeared in the walls and the roof started leaking. The builder says it is normal settling. What can we do?
1 lawyer answer
Responsibility usually depends on the contract, any written or statutory warranty, and the general duty to build to a reasonable standard. Many new homes come with warranty programmes that cover certain defects for set periods, but they often require you to report problems within specific time frames.
Practical steps: photograph and date the defects, notify the builder in writing, check your warranty paperwork for reporting deadlines, and consider an independent inspection to assess whether the issues are cosmetic or structural.
This is general information, not legal advice — speak to a licensed lawyer about your situation.
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