Pyrite-related damage - How to test for Pyrite?

[fizzelina]

Hi, I am getting the keys for a new home this week which is newly built in Meath area. Reading in Irish Independent today there is an article about Pyrite related damage in homes in that area due to floor infill material having pyrite which expands and causes cracks in floors and walls. Homebond cover seems to not cover all the 70k odd which it could cause to repair. My question is before releasing the money to builder and getting the cheque is it better to have our house tested for this pyrite and if so how would I go about testing for it?

 

[PaddyBloggit]

just found this crowd on the net:

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also:

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(no connection with any of the above ... do a google search yourself ... you may find more ... 'pyrite testing in ireland')

(Reading the Indo article http://www.independent.ie/national-...ic-hits-20000-newly-built-houses-2073508.html - you should definitely assure yourself that the risk isn't there.

What about contacting Homebond to see if there's an issue with the area you're buying in?

Or speak to people who have bought similar in the area?

 

[onq]

Hi, I am getting the keys for a new home this week which is newly built in Meath area. Reading in Irish Independent today there is an article about Pyrite related damage in homes in that area due to floor infill material having pyrite which expands and causes cracks in floors and walls. Homebond cover seems to not cover all the 70k odd which it could cause to repair. My question is before releasing the money to builder and getting the cheque is it better to have our house tested for this pyrite and if so how would I go about testing for it?

Yes, I think that would be admirable, but you should check with your solicitor to see whether or not this leaves you exposed legally in any way - for example to non-completion clause penalties in the contract.

There are several knowledgable posters on AAM, at least one of whom I understand is directly involved in testing for Pyrite, namely pyriteengine. You could PM him and I'm sure he'd be only to happy to advise.


Here is the main thread:

http://www.askaboutmoney.com/showthread.php?t=101735&highlight=pyrite


Here is pyriteengine's contact page from which you can send a personal message:

http://www.askaboutmoney.com/member.php?u=42694


Here is the search result page for "pyrite" where its mentioned in threads, listing the threads:




HTH

ONQ.

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All advice on AAM is remote from the situation and cannot be relied upon as a defence or support - in and of itself - should legal action be taken.
Competent persons should be asked to advise in Real Life with rights to inspect and issue reports on the matters at hand.
My best advice is that you should retain a competent building professional to advise you on these matters.