Thanks for the question – we’ve also seen a video of the issue that you’ve sent through (although this doesn’t show what is being done to cause the noise, or whether there is a lot of movement). The noise is quite loud and not what you would normally expect for a modern timber frame house. In order to comment properly a site visit would be necessary and the floor would have to be lifted and then inspected by an expert in timber frame homes. I would suggest you arrange this as soon as possible.

Let’s be clear that this is not an inherent timber frame problem – a badly built structure is badly built, whether it is in timber or masonry. The problem is more likely to be quality of materials and workmanship. Does the building have a warranty or certificate from an architect? This would be an obvious first port of call for advice and possible recourse.

Your supplier’s comments are obviously unacceptable. At the very least the firm should explain what they think is causing the issue and set out the reasons why they are not responsible. If they won’t get involved, your best course would be to commission an expert but give the supplier advance notice that if it is shown to be a defect, any costs of investigation and repair will be recovered from them. This might prod them into action.

I have found TRADA to be an excellent organisation. They are not a trade body as such, but are very knowledgeable and committed to excellence in the use of timber. I do not think that they would try to explain away or defend poor practice in timber frame construction (if this is indeed what’s happened here) – quite the reverse I should think. See trada.co.uk for more information. Apart from general comments, they could also suggest an expert if one is needed.

Julian Owen, Architect & Build It magazine contributor