2020 presented the construction industry with many challenges, from national lockdowns to strict social distancing guidelines. 42% of UK building sites temporarily shut down in April 2020 in line with government guidance.

Although the construction industry delivered 255,000 new homes before the onset of numerous national lockdowns, the demand for these properties has continued to outweigh the supply. During the post-lockdown boom, the demand for new builds surged, with a 66% rise in the new build housing market. 

When purchasing a new build property, it’s common practice by developers to provide a hand over to you. This is so your developer can show you how to use your new home and an opportunity for you to find any issues.

What can go wrong with new build properties? 

Frequent issues with new build properties include poor workmanship and structural defects.

Often, the issues are minor, known as 'snags' and can be repaired most often very easily. These issues, no matter how small, are contractual breaches. The developer breaches their contractual agreement with the buyer by building a property that is not of sufficient and reasonable quality or as specified.

Here are a few things to look out for on a new build:

1. Windows and doors
   When you move into a new build, the last thing you expect to find is a faulty front door or window. However, some internal and external doors can be damaged, while incorrectly fitted windows can let in cold air. A replacement door can cost from as much as £100, while windows can cost upwards of £200 per window.

2. Brickwork
   When it comes to new build homes, another common problem that can arise is brickwork pointing — which, over sufficient time, can lead to water ingress, frost damage and damp.

3. Sealant inconsistencies
   Not only does poor sealant look rushed and messy, but it can also lead to water ingress and damp.

4. Loft insulation issues

   Whether it's been wrongly fitted or it's absent altogether, problems with loft insulation are one of the major snagging issues with new build homes. Costs to rectify this type of work can be in excess of £400, being no cheap fix.

5. Blocked guttering

   If unattended, blocked guttering can cause water to go back up under the roof, resulting in internal problems such as leaks and mould. Although problems may not be visible immediately, over time this can cause bigger problems with the structure of your home such as the timberwork.

6. Decorative issues

   Disaster, disaster you’ve got shoddy plaster! Poor decorative finishes and plastering can lead to expensive fixes and of course inconvenience to your life. The costs can stack up quickly when you need a re-plastering job, re-tiling or even a painter.

What you need to know

Most new builds are covered by a 10-year warranty, providing buyers with peace of mind. Your developer will more than likely have a warranty and insurance for the works carried out.

You should look out for warranties and insurance when purchasing a new build. This warranty means that the developers are responsible for correcting issues and repairing damage if the property was not built-in line with reasonable standards.

Structural or foundation issues can compromise an owner's safety and often cost a lot to remedy. If the property is covered under a warranty, the developer is obligated to make amends to any defects and the owner is insured against any potential damage.

Developers can however, dispute issues or fail to respond at all to problems discovered; in this instance, you should appoint legal representation to help find a resolution to the problems quickly.

Contact our property solicitors today

If you are considering purchasing a new build, our conveyancing team will assist you every step of the way, providing you with clear legal advice to help you avoid unexpected issues should they ever arise.

If you are unfortunate enough to be facing a new build property dispute, our specialist litigation solicitors can provide expert advice on whether you may be able to claim against the developer or any other alternative way.

Call Farnworth Rose today on 01282 695400 or click here to send a message.