Ceiling collapse!!!

bobbyss

Hi,
What would happen if a small part of a landing ceiling collapsed due to the weight of left over rubble from an old chimney? I mean, is the builder obliged to take away the rubble? Would he be expected to? I didn't know he left it up there. Nobody was hurt. Anybody with this kind of experience? Thanks.

Victor

Without inspection, I would suspect a crack or cracks in the chimney. that may be paranoia on my behalf, but better safe than sorry.

Builders don't leave enough 'rubble' in ceilings such that they collapse. Have the building inspected by an engineer or building surveyor, especially the chimney and flue as it may be cracked or have other damage.

If you use the fire, make sure you have a carbon monoxide detector in each room that the chimney passes through, even if you don't light a fire in that room.

http://www.engineersireland.ie/home.aspx
http://www.scsi.ie/

With that information to hand, review your contract with the builder. Depending on how long it is since the work was done, he may or may no be liable. It may be useful to do this with a solicitor.

In the meantime, take picture of the damage to ceiling and anything the stuff fell on.

Pat Mustard

bobbyss wrote: »

Hi,
What would happen if a small part of a landing ceiling collapsed due to the weight of left over rubble from an old chimney? I mean, is the builder obliged to take away the rubble? Would he be expected to? I didn't know he left it up there. Nobody was hurt. Anybody with this kind of experience? Thanks.

It is not practical to attempt to deal with this problem here.

I would suggest getting legal advice if there is any serious damage and you think a builder may have caused it through negligence.

You should ask a good solicitor to recommend a good engineer, and take it from there.

Keep photos of any damage.

bobbyss

Thanks Victor and The Mustard for your Advice.