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05 · Maintenance & responsibilities

Defect, normal behaviour, or routine maintenance?

It is important to understand the difference between:

  • ·a construction defect,
  • ·normal behaviour in a new home,
  • ·and routine homeowner maintenance.

New homes naturally change and settle during their early life, and some ongoing maintenance forms part of normal homeownership.

This guide is intended to help explain what is typically considered normal and when you should contact us.

Normal behaviour in new homes

As a new home dries out and settles, you may notice minor changes in appearance and performance. This can include:

  • ·hairline cracking to walls or ceilings
  • ·slight movement in timber or joinery
  • ·small gaps around skirting boards or sealants
  • ·minor adjustments to doors or windows
  • ·slight changes in appearance of external finishes

These are common in new homes and do not usually indicate a defect.

Environmental effects

Homes at Rydon Village are exposed to natural weather and environmental conditions. Over time, this may result in:

  • ·algae or moss growth on external surfaces
  • ·weathering or discolouration
  • ·moisture-related surface changes
  • ·seasonal variation in appearance

These are environmental effects and are generally considered part of normal maintenance.

Routine homeowner maintenance

All homes require regular upkeep. Examples of normal maintenance include:

  • ·cleaning render, paving, and external surfaces
  • ·maintaining sealants
  • ·clearing gutters and drainage
  • ·managing ventilation and condensation
  • ·caring for landscaping and external areas

These are generally homeowner responsibilities.

Examples — defect vs maintenance

  • Hairline shrinkage cracks

    Normal settling

    Common during drying-out period

  • Minor sealant shrinkage

    Normal maintenance

    May require periodic upkeep

  • Algae on render

    Environmental / maintenance

    More common in shaded or damp areas

  • Condensation

    Usually internal environmental condition

    Often linked to ventilation and heating patterns

  • Slight door adjustment

    Normal settling

    Can occur as materials settle

  • Significant water ingress

    Potential defect

    Should be reported

  • Failure of heating system

    Potential defect

    Requires assessment

  • Electrical fault

    Potential defect

    Should be reported promptly

  • Structural movement

    Potential defect

    Requires investigation

  • Failure of installed component

    Potential defect

    Subject to assessment and warranty terms

When to contact us

Please contact us if you believe there is:

  • ·failure of an installed system
  • ·significant water ingress
  • ·electrical or heating faults
  • ·major cracking or movement
  • ·issues affecting safety or usability

If reporting an issue:

  • ·please do so in writing
  • ·include photographs where possible
  • ·clearly describe the location and concern

We will review and assess the issue accordingly.

Assessment of issues

Not all issues reported will necessarily be considered defects. Assessment may take into account:

  • ·normal settlement behaviour
  • ·environmental conditions
  • ·maintenance requirements
  • ·manufacturer guidance
  • ·warranty coverage and tolerances

Where required, further inspection may be arranged.

Related guidance

Getting to Know Your HomeICW · PDF · opens in a new tab ↗