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How do I protect myself legally from damages to my home due to the construction next door?
Anonymous4 views3 answers
My home is detached. Construction of a new home in the vacant lot next to me began earlier this year. I did not have a preconstruction survey done of my home. I am now noticing new cracks on the side wall of my house and the in concrete walkway on the side of my home. there were some pre-existing cracks that were documented in the inspection when I purchased my home in 6/2011. I can't tell which cracks are new and which were pre-existing.
Cracking in sidewalks and stucco is typical and not considered a defect unless the cracks are excessive. You will need a qualified construction expert to determine if the cracks are a problem. Assuming you can document what the property looked like before construction, you may be able to prove that the new cracks are their fault. Make sure to take lots of pictures.
Take photos immediately. If more cracks emerge, photos will help prove causation. However, the full extent may be difficult to prove, depending upon how well the old report description is.
Some minor cracks are normal and to be expected. You would ultimately have to have a construction expert come to assess any of the damages to your home to see if there is any damage attributable to the construction next door.
