Q. How do I deal with blocked drains?

Q. We are having ongoing problems with blocked drains. Should I contact the city council?

HMH: Most blockages are on either private drains or common (shared private) drains. a small bit of detective work should establish if it’s a proverbial “nappy”  blockage or a broken drain caused by building work, tree roots or, as I recently experienced, a tree stake driven through the heart (of a drain). If the mystery persists contact a drainage company who will, for a fee, do a video survey where the problem gets pinpointed.  When new building work is carried out over drains it ought to be done in such a way where the old sewer is not taking extra weight, is encased in concrete and is capable of being rodded (i.e. no sharp bends without manholes). Of course if the blockage is on road or public land…ring the city council drainage section.

Q. Should I be worried about house cracks?

Q. I am worried about some cracks in my house both at the edge of the ceiling and above and below a rear window. What should I do?

HMH. The crack at the edge of the ceiling is most likely a shrinkage crack. The plasterboard ceiling is connected to the timber floor structure above and timber can dry out and shrink marginally. This is common in newly built houses and is of no structural significance (i.e. polyfilla is the answer after the crack has settled).

The wall crack should be monitored and the problem might be due to settlement and this should be looked at, especially if the crack is on the inside as well as the outside.

The window area of a wall is the weakest and will show cracks first. Cracks can be structurally tied and in cases where they are getting worse underpinning of walls or foundations may be required. This involves localised digging and insertion of concrete below ground, not quite a diy job that I’d recommend without a structural engineer.

Q. Is there a limit to the size of an extension I can build at the back of my house?

HMH: Yes. 40 square metres (about 430 sq.ft) but there are certain limitations you also need to be aware of. Any earlier (post 1963 extension) is taken out of this area. The area is an internal wall measurement but if a section of back wall becomes “internal” it’s area also needs to be included. The extension must be single storey except for 12 square metres which can be upstairs in a terraced or semi-detached house or 20 sq.m. for a detached house. This upstairs extension also need to be at least 2 metres from the site boundary. There are other restrictions on upper storey windows. Remember that if your house is a protected structure the above rules may not be assumed as the “character” of the house needs to be considered carefully.

Q. What's wrong with the houses in Ireland?

With 74 Customers to date Nationwide having between them 108 issues of concern the analysis shows the issues being as follows:
25% Alterations and Extensions Queries
23% Insulation and Window Issues
15% Damp Related
11% Roof Defects
10% Sundry House Defects
9% Cracks
7% Planning Issues
3% Plumbing Issues
Whatever your concern is...ring Anthony on 01 6683519

WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS HAVE SAID:

A great idea and cheap at the price!"
(Frank McDonald, Irish Times Environment Editor)
The Architect has some lovely creative ideas and we got very good advice"
(Athlone Client)
"A brilliant name for a brilliant new idea! Help My House has given me invaluable advice on a number of issues, for example insulation to my front door and the windows of the extension. The architect also reassured me about a solar panel which I was thinking of having installed. A few months later, my house is insulated and warm!
(Ranelagh Client)
My neighbours are building and my Help My House Area Architect has offered great practical assistance by liasing with the contractor and architect on site, in a professional and friendly manner. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend them.
(same Ranelagh Client)
"Thank you for your advice and support over the past few weeks.It was great some to get some qualified independent advice and it enabled us to sort out our house improvement plans. Your Help my Home service is a great idea and it certainly worked for us. I wish you well."
(Foxrock Homeowner with window and insulation issues)
"Fantastic Service"
(Mount Merrion client after resolution of roof leak issue)
"I love everything about the idea and the presentation. Well done! "
(Kildare Client)
" Congratulations on your initiative"
(Athlone client)

Help My House - Smart Advice for a FIxed Price

Help My House - Smart Advice for a FIxed Price

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HEARTFELT THOUGHTS TO FLOOD VICTIMS

Our heartfelt thoughts are with those who have had their homes damaged by floods recently. We are not seeking to be opportunistic but are nonetheless aware that a number of people will need advice on how to repair damaged properties. If you think we can help just call us on 01-6683519 or email anthony@helpmyhouse.ie