Any Point in Guarantee From Builder

[Timbo21]

As per title,

Is there any point in getting them to give me some kind of guarantee?

Ie, building works guaranteed for......

Basically, I'm having the roof done, loft made into useable space with windows, 1st floor wall under bay window replaced, uppermost triangular section of front wall to roof replaced, rendering front & back & painted.

The guy has long standing customers he has done extensive renovations over the years for who are all well happy. I know person who had loft conversion done 8 years ago, etc.

Should i ask for some kind of guarantee in writing, and if so what?

 

[noseall]

A single "cover all" guarantee is unfeasible or unworkable.

Certain materials, that are correctly installed are guaranteed for so long by the manufacturer. Perishable items are, er, perishable so they will only last a set time.

Workmanship and quality of work is another matter. I guess the builder is obligated to ensure quality a set period of time, but what is reasonable?

Quantifying things like seasonal movement, shrinkage, settlement, weather damage etc, is a bit of a grey area too.

So what is it you want guaranteeing....?

 

[Timbo21]

Thanks noseall.

Just wanted to see if it's normal practice, and whether I should be asking for it.

If it's workmanship, then how long is reasonable?

 

[noseall]

If it's workmanship, then how long is reasonable?

Precisely.

A building can last several lifetimes but not without maintenance.

Some items will need maintaining after say 5 years, some later on etc.

What are you looking for from the guarantee?

 

[jeds]

If it's workmanship, then how long is reasonable?

Depends. Workmanship is a contract and you are entilted to claim for breaches for a period of 6 years. (can be extended by contract or if the builder deliberately covers up poor workmanship) The succes of any claim though will be modified by the specified quality and materials. In other words, if you specify top quality materials and workmanship then you would be more likely to succeed in claims right up to the 6 years - but of course you will also attract high prices. Going to the other extreme, if you want a cheap job then you will need to lower your expectations.