New Home Owners And Snagging Forum
Advice on buying a brand new home => NHBC Warranty => Topic started by: EdT on June 06, 2025, 04:41:10 pm
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Hello,
I would appreciate anyone's thoughts or experiences on problems I currently have with render cracking. I moved into a David Wilson new build three years ago and at the turn of this year noticed render cracking and disintegrating around window sills/reveals, the front door and lead flashing around a rear bay area. I have submitted a claim to NHBC, who have refused it, saying it's consistent with thermal movement of the building, and therefore not covered. None of my neighbours have experienced similar issues and I find it hard to accept that I should have to shell out potentially several thousand pounds for repairs after less three years living in the property.
I've attached a few pictures to show the problem - it is apparent around several windows on the first and second floors of the house. David Wilson sent me some warranty information for the render, which apparently is covered for 10 years by Parex the manufacturer. I'm planning to complain to NHBC but don't do so from a position of any expertise - all I have is what I've found online, which is that render cracking/disintegrating can be down to poor application/mixing or weather conditions at the time of application. My problem is that it seems difficult to prove things one way or another - I'd be grateful of any suggestions on how to make a successful challenge or comments on the appearance of the render.
Thanks for reading.
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Is your render" self-coloured similar to Monocouche?
It probably is and they will have a specification to lessen the likelihood of cracking and any claim under their warranty.
It is quite likely that the specification is not followed by most house builders.
Wrong blocks uses.
Bricks used instead of coursing block.
Expansion joints missing or in the wrong place.
No EML reinforcement at corners of windows and above doors.
Be warned, any remedial work will be of a noticeable different shade.
You need to write to David Wilson Homes as it is within the first two years and they are on the hook for this. The NHBC should have said this rather than a cut and paste dismissal letter.