We are at the final stage of building a one-off house. The previous stages have been checked and signed off by our engineer and stage payments drawn down and payed to our builder. All that's left is the 2nd fix carpentry/plumbing stage which has been completed but not yet been checked by the engineer.
One or two settling cracks have appeared on external walls and we are not too concerned about these. However, recently we noticed a crack running along the length of the ceiling/top of wall in one of the upstairs bedrooms. Our engineer is coming out to look at it in the next few days.
My questions are based on what the engineer may say when she examines this crack?
If she tells us it's not a problem is it necessary to ask her to write a specific report stating this? If the crack subsequently turns out to be symptomatic of a structural defect will this report render her liable for any repairs?
If she identifies a problem who is liable for the repairs? Herself, (because she certified the previous stages) or the builder. Both have the necessary insurance.
One or two settling cracks have appeared on external walls and we are not too concerned about these. However, recently we noticed a crack running along the length of the ceiling/top of wall in one of the upstairs bedrooms. Our engineer is coming out to look at it in the next few days.
My questions are based on what the engineer may say when she examines this crack?
If she tells us it's not a problem is it necessary to ask her to write a specific report stating this? If the crack subsequently turns out to be symptomatic of a structural defect will this report render her liable for any repairs?
If she identifies a problem who is liable for the repairs? Herself, (because she certified the previous stages) or the builder. Both have the necessary insurance.