Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 2/4/2009

Question
HAD A NEW HOME BUILT IN FEB. 2002. ABOUT 2 YEARS AGO SMALL CRACKS STARTED APPEARING AROUND THE WINDOWS OF ONE OF THE BEDROOMS ON THE EAST END OF OUR HOUSE, THEN AROUND THE DOOR FACING IN THE SAME ROOM, THEN IN THE MIDDLE OF A WALL IN OUR LIVING ROOM, WHICH IS IN THE MIDDLE OF THE HOUSE. AT CHRISTMAS THIS PAST YEAR CRACKS IN OUR DINING ROOM, AROUND THE WINDOWS APPEARED.
I HIRED A HOME INSPECTOR, HE SUGGESTED FOUNDATION REPAIR BEFORE IT GETS WORSE. QUESTION IS AFTER THIS LENGTH OF TIME IS THE BUILDER UNDER ANY KIND OF OBLIGATION TO REPAIR THE FOUNDATION?

Answer
Hi JIMMY, I am not an attorney, however, from previous contracts I have been involved with over the years the builder is generally responsible for pretty much everything the first year after completion and the structure is guaranteed for five years. The roof and appliances each carry their own individual warrantees. Your contract with the builder should have this pertinent information on it.  I hope this information helps feel free to write again regarding this or other matters,sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com