Our new-build dream homes have turned into a nightmare with a list of problems… they’re more like joke houses
HOMEOWNERS on a new-build estate say their dream homes have turned into a nightmare after finding a string of problems.
One resident on the West Yorkshire estate has even described his property as a "joke house" after having to explain to guests how the glitchy toilet works.
Andy Toulson, who bought a townhouse on the Elliot Place project in Castleford, says the new-build has "destroyed" his hopes of owning a dream home and he is getting "nowhere" with developers.
Since moving into the property he has discovered a long list of problems, such as a faulty staircase, plumbing issues and windows that allow cold in.
After speaking to the about the endless list of issues in his home, other residents have also come forward who are facing similar problems.
Mr Toulson said that his kitchen "virtually needs a full replacement", his garden is waterlogged and he has a toilet that won't stop flushing when it has started.
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When he moved into the property with his partner Emma, they were hoping to be settled for Christmas but instead, he says it has "destroyed our dream."
He added: "It's become a joke house having to explain how the toilet works.
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"I feel that now Avant has our money, they’re not interested.
"They have the resources and parts to fix our problems but their priority is to build more and get more people in to make money.
“There’s now even a board outside the showhouse on the estate saying Avant are highest rated for customer satisfaction.
“All I want is some factual information, no rubbish, and some fixed, agreed dates to get the work done."
Mr Toulson is not alone in his frustration.
Adam Newman and his wife moved into their property last February and have also been plagued with problems.
He said: "We have a heat recovery system in our house that’s never worked properly.
"We haven’t had the extraction on in our house because it’s linked to the same system, which will end up with the walls being mouldy."
Mr Newman also said he was assured by Avant that they wouldn't hear any traffic noise from the nearby motorway as the windows were "high-performance acoustic windows."
But added: "It’s the opposite – it’s a nightmare it feels like the windows are open when they’re not.
"When you’re paying £300,000 for a house you expect it to be luxury."
Peter Gregory, who lives at Towchester Drive in the development, said he had trouble with drafts and external brickwork.
He said: “Our brickwork is still covered with cement after one jet washing some time ago.
"Avant have looked at the photos I've sent them and refuse to attend to clean them properly saying they are ‘within tolerance’.
"That seems to be their answer to anything that they don't want to fix.”
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An Avant Homes spokesperson said: "Avant Homes has actively undertaken works to remedy residents’ concerns and is continuing to work closely with them to address any points raised.
"With regards to Mr Toulson, Mr Newman and Mr Gregory, all works on their properties have now been completed to their satisfaction."