Self-Build Year 1 Maintenance — Monthly Walks, Heating Tuning, and the Settlement

Year 1: walk around monthly. Document any cracks, door alignment, drainage falls, heating performance. Most things shake down. Adjust the heat pump curve to match actual heat demand. Check the MVHR filters (every 12–18 months). Inspect the airtightness membrane for any visible damage. Most year-1 maintenance is observation, not work. The first 12 months shake things down. Don't panic at hairline cracks — they're normal (plaster shrinkage, settlement of backfill around the foundation). The defects liability period is 12 months; report any defects to the contractor in writing with photos. Most year-1 defects are minor and fixed free of charge.

TL;DR

• Year 1: walk around monthly. Document any cracks, door alignment, drainage falls, heating performance. Most things shake down.

• Adjust the heat pump curve to match actual heat demand. Check the MVHR filters. Inspect the airtightness membrane for any visible damage.

• Most year-1 maintenance is observation, not work. The first 12 months shake things down. Don't panic at hairline cracks — they're normal.

When this matters most

You've taken handover and want a year-1 schedule.

When this doesn't apply

You're past year 1.

Frequently asked questions

What is the most common year-1 self-build issue?

Hairline cracks in the plaster (shrinkage, settlement). Door alignment changes as the timber frame dries. Heating curve needs tuning. All normal in year 1.

How often should I walk the house in year 1?

Monthly. Document any cracks, door alignment, drainage falls, heating performance. Report any defects to the contractor in writing with photos.

When should I tune the heat pump?

After the first 3 months. The first winter gives you the actual heat demand data. Adjust the heat pump curve to match. Most installers leave the curve at default, which over- or under-heats.

Sources

SEAI, Heat pump maintenance. https://www.seai.ie/