Claiming for defective buildingwork

Shubhra

Hi,

Our extension went wrong when at steel stage building regs rejected to pass thrice. Attempts to rectify failed eventually another builder finished the work. I issue got complicated when we found that the entire house was standing on a brick as a result recede by a few cm's from one side leading to rectification work required including cracks in rooms, loft and bathroom.
TWO ISSUES AS I AM CLAIMING:
1. Ageas (insurance of the builder) saying they aren't getting response from the builder to pursue claim so I should take legal route.
2. My own building insurance says they don't cover defective work under my insurance.
 
I along with my two young kids were homeless- having to live elsewhere for over two years because of this. I have suffered mentally and under too much financial stress due to the extra cost incurred to rectify. 

What are my option?
Have people had bad experience with Ageas?
Ideally they should pay up- if they insured the builder?

Please GUIDE- I am so lost

Thanks

DullGreyGuy

You've correctly worked out that Home insurance doesnt cover defective workmanship so thats a dead avenue.

Basically you claim against the builder and the builder has the option of asking his insurers to defend him or not. Ageas are there to protect the builder not you, he is their customer not you. There are only two classes of insurance (Employers Liability and Motor) where you can force the insurer to act as a third party and even then the insurer can require you to have a court order against their insured before they act. 

You need to send the builder a Letter Before Action, send a second copy to their Insurers, and hope the threat of court gets them to respond to their insurer. How much are you claiming for?

[Deleted User]

Do you have legal cover on your insurance? If so, call them for advice.