Cracking cornices and plaster cracks are a common feature that often occur naturally in a new home. Ground movement and natural settling can occur with minor cracks appearing in walls or cornices, often several years after the house has been completed. Because this cracking appears on your walls it does not mean they are necessarily affecting the Structural integrity of your home.
Many homebuyers incorrectly believe that this type of cracking is the builders’ responsibility to rectify. Under the Builders’ Registration Act (1939) a builder is responsible for any faulty and defective work for a period of six years after practical completion. However the builder’s liability will not extend to purely maintenance items which are the owners responsibility. Just like a new car, you would not expect the manufacturer after say 3 or 4 years to fix a cracking seal, you cannot expect a builder to be responsible for minor cornice or plaster cracking years after the home has been completed and lived in.
Wall cracks below 2mm in width are deemed minor & generally of no structural concern
If you have a cracking problem, the best option is to contact your builder to arrange an inspection to determine the extent of the problem and its likely cause.
Houspect- Buy, Build and Invest with Confidence
08 9240 8855
info.wa@houspect.com.au
