Home Structural engineer problem

LyndseyB · 10 July 2018 at 10:03PM

Hi I was wondering if yourselves may be able to assist me with some help & advice please
In a new property which requires further building works

The questions we have is who is legally responsible to correct and carry out further works to rectify any problem?

Thanks

G_M · 10 July 2018 at 10:08PM

LyndseyB wrote: »

......... as a result a structural engineer was instructed by the previous owners, who recommended building works to rectify the issue to make it structurally safe - a concrete lintel has been bolted in.

Builders were instructed by the previous owners and the work carried out.

If there is clear evidence of poor workmanship, the previous owners would have a case against the builders.

I'm afraid you've learned a lesson the hard way.

Cakeguts · 10 July 2018 at 11:15PM

This is why you have structural engineer's report before you buy or you take the risk and you do not accept any work done by sellers without checking that it has been done properly.

There is nothing you can do about this because it wasn't your builders who did the work and you didn't check that it was done to your satisfaction before you paid for the house.

This is an example of why if a house you are buying needs work you do not have it done by the seller you either leave it and get it done when you own the house or you withdraw your offer and look for a different property. When you paid for the house you accepted it in the condition that it was in.

avacapri · 11 July 2018 at 6:39AM

how big are the doors?

we had a lintel put in and the engineer explained that over a large span the can bow but I would be surprised if a concrete one does as they are normally just short spans - perhaps the lintel is defective and as such you may have a claim, perhaps the builders packed out the frame and forced it down, I would get some builders in to look at it as the solution may be very easy and cost very little.
I am just guessing - especially if the frames are upvc they can bend easily and if the builders have packed out the centre section forcing it down it will create a bow.

anselld · 11 July 2018 at 6:47AM

Forget the window for a minute, the purpose of the lintel is to support the rest of the house, not to aid the function of the doors.

So is the new structural engineer satisfied with the lintel and the structure? If so then just get a double glazing Company in to adjust the fit of the frames and doors.

Davesnave · 11 July 2018 at 6:53AM

This is why people should never get an owner to rectify shortcomings before purchase. Being human, they will tend to get Bill the Bodger and his mates to carry out the fix at the cheapest price.

Far better to negotiate a reduction and deal with any matters of concern after taking possession.

Never mind, you're not the first people to be upset at a problem you've discovered on purchase, but it's hardly a situation to warrant 'distress,' because it can be remedied.

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