New Build Homeowner Faces £2,000 Repair Bills Within First Year

A Middlesbrough homeowner has spent thousands of pounds fixing defects in her new-build property after the developer failed to address multiple issues promptly.

Mary Leeper, 42, purchased the £210,000 semi-detached house last year, attracted by its modern interior, spacious living room and garden location in a quiet area. However, within six months, serious problems began to emerge in what she had hoped would be her dream home.

"I enjoyed the modern décor and the fact that it was brand new. It was also in a quiet area which was convenient," said Ms Leeper, who works as a tutor. But her initial enthusiasm soon gave way to concern as issues with insulation, flooring and the roof became apparent.

Despite having a survey conducted before purchase, several significant problems weren't identified. The property suffers from inadequate insulation causing cold rooms, uneven living room floors, and a leaking roof that emerged during wet weather.

The developer's response has been disappointing, according to Ms Leeper. "They've not responded immediately, they've been okay with letting us know that there's been a problem, but the repairs are slow, and the communications have been unhelpful," she said. "They keep saying they'll make it right, and they never actually do."

Faced with delays in getting repairs completed, Ms Leeper has already spent approximately £2,000 fixing the insulation and floor issues herself. The roof repairs remain incomplete, leaving uncertainty about additional costs.

The financial impact has been significant. While her monthly mortgage payment of £1,100 feels manageable, the unexpected repair costs have put pressure on her finances. "I've survived financially, but it's been rough with the extra costs," she explained.

Making matters worse, Ms Leeper has discovered that neighbours in similar properties built by the same developer have experienced comparable issues, particularly with poor insulation and delayed repairs.

While she has considered moving, Ms Leeper feels trapped by the financial implications. "Right now, I'm not sad about buying it because I'm just waiting for the issues to be resolved. But it's a hugely worrying sign that I might not buy anything new again," she told The i Paper.

Her experience highlights the importance of thorough snagging inspections before completing on new-build properties, and the challenges homeowners face when developers are slow to address construction defects.