Potential Problems with Builders

[Ric.ror]

In May 2011 I spent almost £40K on the house my son lived in - this work included a new roof, heating, re-wiring and removing a chimney brest. I chose a local builder who was recommended to me by many people among them my ex-husband who's property he had worked on.
In summer after the heavy rain a small damp patch appeared in the corner of the kitchen on the celing (also new) The patch disappeared but has re-appeared now and brought down a little of the plaster.
I intend to contact the builder to come and look at this but I am concerned that I will end up with another hefty bill, and not sure what the protocol is. Surely it is still up to the builder to sort this out?
I am not expecting any problems with him but I would like to know where I stand and the usual building protocol
Hope this makes sense

[jackthehat]

Before apportioning blame, investigations need to be made as to the cause of the damp.

Ask the Builder to come and have a look, but don't be confrontational. Once the cause has been established *then* you can decide quite how to move forwards.

[VHG]

>>>I am concerned that I will end up with another hefty bill

Why?

If the builder cares about his reputation he will repair it for nothing.

[Canary42]

Could be something relatively easy to fix - like a split/loose flashing. Ask the builder in a friendly way and take it from there. If it is due to his poor workmanship then you do have good cause to charge the repairs to him. Providing you're tactful and (as already stated) non-confrontational he should be obliging anyway if he's any good.

[Ric.ror]

Oh thank you so much
I feel more confident about contacting him now

[Ric.ror]

Just contacted the builder who - after telling me all the problems he is having with his back - said he will call around later this week

[The Builder]

For my 2 cents worth Ric................ I couldn't agree more with what the others have said.
I would certainly be there like a shot to see if it was because of something I had done. Most decent builders would. It's one of the most important things that make them "decent".
Should be no need for confrontation.......... let's see what he says :o)