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new build flaws - compensation?

hi all,


I've previously posted threads about the issues I've had with my new build,
is it acceptable to request compensation from a major house builder, after experiencing what I consider to be more then my fair share of major snags? or should I just move on and chalk it up to experience.


things I've had in the 4 months since buying:


1)faulty thermostatic valve under bath (no hot water) - unable to use for the 1st week (plumbers have locked it open, rather then replace)


2) both bathroom and en-suite faulty window handles


3) major leak from bathroom, causing water damage to downstairs hall way, and wall around front door, it took 2 weeks for them to actually identify where the water was coming from, despite my insistence that it was the bathroom sink, eventually they had to cut a 3ft by 3ft hole in the hall ceiling to get upto the pipework, where they found a incorrectly fitted pipe.
I then had to wait a further 3 weeks before the hole in the ceiling was made good.


4) damp in garage, as builder had laid topsoil higher then the damp course (garage built about 20cm too low!) which involved builders lifting (and ruining turf) to basically dig down, and glue paving slabs to side of garage to prevent soil touching brickwork)


5) damaged radiator, identified on the pre completion tour by site manager, but still not replaced 4 months later


6) leak from hot water tank, damaging insulation and skirting board


7) scratched hob identified 1st day of ownership, specialist polisher called in, but left the matt finish like mirror, builders agreed to replace, still waiting


8) bowed draining board (identified 1st day) which caused poor fitting, and water ingress to cabinet carcuss, both agreed to be replaced, still waiting.


9) water leak from stopcock late on a Friday night, called out of hours support, but took 21 hours for a plumber to come out, in which time I had no water (I turned off at meter), excuse given was due to bad weather, but the whole day had been sunny and 15+ degrees! another kitchen unit carcuss blown due to water ingress, leak started again the next day (but manageable with a bowl this time), and had to get the onsite plumbers out when they were back on site monday


10) I have 3 days of builders own decorators booked to come and redecorate, the original contractor was sacked, and mine was last one they did, builder agreed it was shocking so the whole 4 bed house is getting redone, including shocking paintwork to stair case and doors, and a lot of areas (above doors) that hadn't even been painted.


11) getting whole bath replaced as plumbers cracked it getting side panel off to try and identify leak in problem number 3 above


12) leak from guttering causing damp wall


13) builders still working next door placed fencing against meter cupboards and breaking the door - twice






not to mention the contractors using my driveway as a parking space / turning bay, blocking my driveway, constantly placing temp fencing along the side of my house, preventing access to the meters.


what do you think?
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Comments

  • GwylimT
    GwylimT Posts: 6,530 Forumite
    1,000 Posts Combo Breaker
    What financial loss have you suffered?

    I don't think compensation is owed, just getting the issues put right in a timely manner. Who is the builder?
  • Thrugelmir
    Thrugelmir Posts: 89,546 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 10,000 Posts Name Dropper Photogenic
    Compensation for what? Developer presumably has agreed to fix these issues.
  • economic
    economic Posts: 3,002 Forumite
    Can't offer advice sorry but thanks for reminding me never to buy a new build.
  • AdrianC
    AdrianC Posts: 42,189 Forumite
    Eighth Anniversary 10,000 Posts Name Dropper
    gregsayer wrote: »
    4) damp in garage, as builder had laid topsoil higher then the damp course (garage built about 20cm too low!) which involved builders lifting (and ruining turf) to basically dig down, and glue paving slabs to side of garage to prevent soil touching brickwork)
    They did WHAT?

    Blimey, if that's the standard of workmanship they've been going with, I'd be asking for my money back and moving out. That's a shocking bodge - and not even any easier than a proper fix, which would be to create a French drain.
  • glasgowdan
    glasgowdan Posts: 2,967 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 1,000 Posts Combo Breaker
    Wow, WHY would anybody want a new build house again?
  • Marvel1
    Marvel1 Posts: 7,425 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 1,000 Posts Name Dropper
    New build = nice to look at from outside, but now I'm happy with my roughly 1920 mid terrace.
  • dc197
    dc197 Posts: 812 Forumite
    Ninth Anniversary Combo Breaker
    Surely your aim us to get these fixed, not to get a cheque?

    What is the status of the outstanding work?

    Maybe afterwards you might be able to claim for mental anguish or some such modern ailment.
  • glasgowdan
    glasgowdan Posts: 2,967 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 1,000 Posts Combo Breaker
    There's nothing wrong with asking for compensation after having to deal with all of this. How about you let us know which builder it is, and let them know you're spreading word of the issues you've had.
  • robatwork
    robatwork Posts: 7,256 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 1,000 Posts Name Dropper Photogenic
    Is it Barratts?
  • chanz4
    chanz4 Posts: 11,057 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 10,000 Posts Name Dropper Xmas Saver!
    Screwed if is barratts as you will get zip zip zero
    Don't put your trust into an Experian score - it is not a number any bank will ever use & it is generally a waste of money to purchase it. They are also selling you insurance you dont need.
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