Understanding Settlement Cracks in New Home Construction

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Evaluating Settlement Cracks in New Builds Per NHBC (National House Building Council) Guidelines for acceptable tolerance of cracking in new homes.

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When purchasing a newly built home, some minor cracks due to settlement is expected as the property adjusts to its foundations over the first few years. However, it's crucial to understand what constitutes acceptable levels versus signs of more significant structural issues based on industry standards like those set by the NHBC.

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Acceptable Settlement Cracks (NHBC Guidelines):

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• Hairline cracks less than 1mm wide in internal plaster/drywall

• Cracks up to 2mm wide in external brickwork

• Cracks up to 4mm wide in external render

• Stepped/diagonal cracks up to 6mm wide in paved areas

 

These minor crack widths fall within the NHBC's tolerance levels for new home settlement during the first 2 years after construction. They are considered cosmetic issues that can be rectified through routine filling, patching, sealing and redecorating.  Some new build companies do offer a 6 month maintenance.

During a return maintenance they may address small cracks in skirtings, window and door frames, and check doors and windows are closing properly.  This would be done as an added value customer care.

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Potentially Problematic Cracks

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• Any crack over 1mm wide continuing through wall/ceiling sections

• Cracks wider than 4mm in external brickwork

• Cracks wider than 6mm in external render or paved areas

• Cracks allowing moisture penetration from outside

Cracks exceeding these NHBC maximum dimensions may indicate more excessive structural movement or settlement requiring further investigation and remedial work by professional contractors.

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Other Common Snags:

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In addition to cracking, the NHBC standards cover other typical snags in new builds such as:

• Doors/windows not operating properly due to distortion

• Roofing defects like raised/dished areas

• Rainwater goods/drainage issues

• Surface blemishes on kitchen fittings, sanitary ware, etc.

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While minor snags are common with new construction, home buyers should ensure any issues outside of NHBC tolerance levels are identified and addressed by the builder under their warranty obligations.

 

By understanding these industry-accepted guidelines for cracking and defects, new homeowners can better evaluate which settlement issues are typical versus those requiring further attention from the builder.

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IMPORTANT

Do remember although your new home is covered by NHBC if you have bought it from another person NOT the builder within a year or two, any small  defects such as cracked tiles, decorating etc should be addressed by the vendor as the contract of sale is between you and the vendor not the developer. 

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