10 year guarantee - decennal

[Catalpa]

After 19 months, our stonemason is close to finishing the 3 months work he started in January 2005. Having used fully registered, insured, recommended (French) artisans, we expect the 10-year guarantee paperwork. What does this look like? What should we expect to receive? And when? Our preference is we hand over the final payment and the stonemason hands over our decennal. Any reason why it shouldn't work that way?

[tetley]

as far as i am aware (only recently got the decannel), it is an insurance document that remains in the hands of the artisan.  You are welcome to take a photocopy.  personally,  we would give invoices/devis as proof of work done,  and give a photocopy of the decannel on request.  if there was to be a claim later on, you have got the invoice to prove what, where and when the work was carried out.  I would think that you should normally ask to see the decannel before work begins, along with registration card. Don't know how other people work? 

[Monika]

Thanks for reminding us, Catalpa,  to ask for the 10 year guarantee, as we are nearing the end of our project too.

So who would we address in the future if we have any claim? Is this insurance the builder has a national insurance, or are there different bodies? I must admit we have never asked to see anything regards an insurance, but we are employing a reputable company.  

[tetley]

the decannel would be with an insurance agent, could be with a specialist agency or a high street one.  My decannel has the agency details on it.  If there was to be a claim, you could approach the artisan first...........don't assume every builder/artisan has one....they should , and you should check before you agree to take them on, it is your responsibility to make sure they have correct insurances.  If they damage someone elses property or themselves it can open a real can of worms.