build homeowner finds 150 faults days after moving in

Key Points:

• Georgina and Charles Barnes discovered 150 defects in their new-build home shortly after moving in, including fire safety issues, leaks, and poor workmanship, following an independent inspection by New Home Quality Control.
• New Home Quality Control, founded by former industry insiders frustrated with poor building standards, routinely finds defects in new homes, highlighting widespread quality issues in the UK housing market.
• The National House Building Council (NHBC) and Home Builders Federation (HBF) maintain that builders are responsible for meeting regulations and addressing defects, with most issues being minor and covered by warranties, though concerns about skill shortages persist.
• Independent snagging inspections, which cost between £349 and £499, are recommended by experts but not affordable for all buyers, and the industry cautions buyers to choose qualified inspectors due to lack of regulation in this sector.
• Government bodies emphasize ongoing investment in affordable housing and workforce training to improve construction quality, while some developers support independent inspections as additional reassurance.