£400k Avant Homes in Sheffield “Riddled with Problems”

A couple in Sheffield faced a disheartening ordeal after purchasing a £400,000 new build home from Avant Homes, located in the developing area of Moorthorpe Way, Owlthorpe. This should have been a dream come true, but it quickly turned into a nightmare due to severe mould issues, which surfaced just weeks after moving in.

The homeowners reported that the skirting boards in their new property began collecting moisture shortly after their move, leading to significant mould growth. This mould was not only confined to the skirting boards; it spread to the carpets and the walls behind the kitchen, creating an unhealthy living environment. "The carpet is mouldy and the walls behind the kitchen are mouldy," they lamented during an interview with The Star.

The completion of their home was also significantly delayed. Originally scheduled for handover in July 2023, the couple only received the keys in March 2024. This delay compounded their frustration, forcing them to take time off work and temporarily live with relatives while remedial work was undertaken.

It soon became apparent that this issue was not isolated. Neighbours in adjacent homes reported similar problems with mould, suggesting a recurring issue in the construction process that affected several residents on the estate. Despite multiple complaints to Avant Homes, the couple felt that their concerns were initially dismissed until the head of construction intervened personally to oversee the rectification work.

Avant Homes acknowledged the issue, attributing it to a faulty batch of skirting boards that affected three homes within the development. A spokesperson stated, "We have experienced some localised issues with some mould growth in three plots on the development. Upon investigation, we have traced the issue to a consignment of skirting boards used on the plots affected. We consider this matter is now resolved and will not re-occur."

The Importance of Snagging Surveys

This distressing experience highlights the critical importance of conducting a snagging survey before accepting a new build home. Snagging surveys are thorough inspections designed to identify defects or unfinished areas in new properties, ensuring that any issues are addressed by the developer before they become major problems for homeowners.

For new homeowners, investing in a snagging survey is a crucial step in protecting their investment. It offers peace of mind by ensuring that their new home meets the expected standards and is free from defects. Moreover, it empowers homeowners with the necessary documentation to hold developers accountable for the quality of their work, potentially saving thousands in future repair costs. Despite the challenges faced by homeowners in Sheffield with Avant Homes, such experiences underscore the invaluable benefits of having a snagging survey conducted.