We moved into the first phase of a new development eleven years ago. For some reason they were intent on plowing through the building and opening up the subdivision in record time. In fact, some of the homes were finished and were moved in before a permanent source of electricity was set up. Stories of blackouts and lack of phone service are common among the original owners. When contractors have goals like that, some things are bound to suffer. In our case, it was the fact that the ground was not stamped before foundations were poured leaving cracks and dips in concrete.
We feel lucky that our foundation has been crack-free for the last decade. Unfortunately, our sidewalk and porch did not fare as well. After about two years we needed to call Winnipeg concrete contractors to come and lift a small section on the edge of our porch. After a few heavy snow winters we noticed that our sidewalk in front of our house had a few sinking squares. Again, we made another call to Winnipeg concrete contractors to come fix the problem. Both fixes were easier and less expensive than we anticipated.
While we have loved our home and are grateful for the equity that came with moving in a first phase home, we will be more careful in the future. Quality work is easily worth the extra money you save on a home.