New build house - scratches on sink and hob

*Kat*

I just moved into my new home yesterday and during the handover I pointed out that there were scratches on the hob and the sink in the kitchen.

Am I being too picky? I mean, it's just a few scratches on each, but I've paid all this money so expect items to be in an excellent condition (unscratched!).

The sales lady put it on her list, but I'm not sure what the next steps are?

giddypenguin

Over the next few weeks you'll probably find a few imperfections - keep a list of all of them, and pass them onto the builder. They should them rectify these. My builder usually sends the surveyor/site manager out to assess the issues highlighted, then he arranges suitable people (builders/plumbers/electricians etc) to do the work.

If you've not heard anything in a couple of weeks phone them and ask what's being done.

As to whether you are over reacting - I can't see the scratches from here so don't know how bad they are! But yes, you have paid a premium for new fixtures so they should be in good condition.

PasturesNew

Don't let them skimp. Remember that a huge chunk of what you paid was pure profit to their company..... for selling you a nice, shiny, new house and fittings.

It'll be a few quid for them to fix.

Keep a list.

Mickygg

No you are not being too picky. It's like delivery if a brand new car, where you wouldn't accept scratches on the bonnet!

I had a new build from hell. Lots of things were damaged. It was the same old story I had to constantly go on at the builders, but being persistent I did get things replaced.
Examples were:
Worktop scratched, radiators damaged, doors scuffed
All should be brand new and not scuffed.

Good luck, I know it can be draining. My tip is don't let them fix stuff and just accept if you are not happy. They tried to fix my scratched worktop, and told me they wouldn't replace. That was not on as the bit they tried to fix was whiter than the rest. Another complaint later I had it replaced.

As above rather than mention one thing at a time go round the house in detail, maybe get family and friends found for them to look, create a snagging list then present to the builders and ask for them to be rectified. Do it very soon though.

Floxxie

Did you have a handover book? If so, it should detail what snags they will repair and when you need to report them by.

I have just bought my second new build and this builder has listed what they will repair/replace. They are not as keen as the first builder to carry out jobs and there is a breakdown in communication between headoffice and the site manager. I won't be buying another property off them in future!

Davesnave

Stuff happens during storing and fixing. When it does, reputable companies get another one and the slightly damaged unit ends up on ebay.

Recently, I paid £40 for a Franke sink with a tiny dent. It was a good deal.

But you didn't contract for an ebay sink/hob in your new house.

As above, take time out to do snagging this weekend. If the sink and hob are all you find, you'll be amazingly lucky!

robatwork

Do a proper snagging list as this won't be the only thing you find.

Then check your paperwork to see if it has Barratt Homes anywhere on it. If so, take a deep breath and brace yourself. Winter is coming.