-
So sorry to hear, this is a common scenario and I agree chipboard is highly absorbent too so if there is water getting in, it could get worse quickly. I agree with plywood entirely in these scenarios much denser, higher quality. It is so hard for homeowners to feel they have to battle everything when they employ someone to do a proper job.
This is also a classic case where costs get by the builder who didn’t want to pay for plywood knowing that long term when it causes problems they won’t be liable.
Having all your cavity wall insulation sucked out is really concerning and did you say they replaced it?
Even though the renovation was completed over two years ago, you still have rights under consumer protection laws. In the UK, for example, the Consumer Rights Act 2015 states that services (like building work) must be performed with reasonable care and skill. If the work is not up to standard, you may be entitled to repairs or compensation.
Put everything in writing, timelines and document everything, write a letter, cite your consumer rights, You can also reference that chipboard under tiles in a wet area is generally not considered adequate, as backed by industry standards. It may be worth getting an independent builder or surveyor to assess the situation. If they agree that the work was substandard, you can use their report as evidence if the matter escalates.
If the builder continues to ignore you, you can report them to Trading Standards. This could spur them into action.
As a last resort, you can take legal action through the small claims court for the cost of repair or rectification.
If you can, avoid using the shower until it’s repaired to prevent any potential leaks and damage to your kitchen below. You may need someone to do a temporary patch or seal the affected areas to mitigate any immediate risk of water damage.
It’s definitely worth pushing this with the builder as the floor tiling should not fail after only two years, especially in such a crucial area like a wetroom. If they continue to be unresponsive, this will strengthen your case if it comes to that.
Hope that helps? x