Newbuild Homes or Newfound Nightmares? Castleford Residents Share Their Grievances with Avant Homes

Castleford, West Yorkshire, a quaint town known for its rich history, has recently become the spotlight for a different reason. The newbuild homes, which were touted as modern paradises, have brought anything but peace to their homeowners.

Residents have reported a catalogue of issues ranging from structural to cosmetic. Julie Whitaker, among the affected homeowners, stated, "We moved in 15 months ago and it is still a building site.” Her new bi-folding doors were too large, causing damage to the surrounding plaster. She also expressed her frustration over a set of expensive blinds, now likely damaged and unusable, as they don't fit her malfunctioning patio doors.

Dorina Timbur and Aurel Pinstea, another young couple, were eager to start their life in what they believed would be their dream home. However, seven months in, they find themselves compiling a list of issues, including poorly installed stairs, ineffective insulation, draughty bi-fold doors, broken roof vents, and a constant rattling from the central heating pipes. Aurel, reflecting on their challenges, commented, “These are really basic issues that shouldn't even arise. And if they do, they should be resolved quickly. Yet, here we are.”

Another resident highlighted the problem with the brickwork, describing it as “awful and horrendous.” She went on to detail how her window was incorrectly placed and had to be replaced. Others shared stories of doors that buckle under the sun’s heat, with one resident noting how her front door was "bent and bowed, malfunctioning even during winter."

Many residents believe that the construction was rushed, leading to these oversights. “The houses seem like they were just thrown up without care,” commented a local teacher, further showcasing the residents' shared sentiment of disappointment.

Multiple attempts to communicate with the developers and seek resolution have largely fallen on deaf ears. Many homeowners felt sidelined, describing the customer service as “appalling” with a distinct lack of compassion or urgency to resolve issues.

Avant Homes, the developer in the spotlight, has since acknowledged the residents' concerns. In an official statement, a spokesperson assured that they have "put a plan in place to deal with any outstanding works required.”

While some hope for timely resolutions, others express regret, with one resident poignantly stating, "It feels less like a home and more like an ongoing project."

This Castleford situation stands as a warning bell for prospective homeowners everywhere. Beneath the glossy veneer of newbuild homes, there might lurk a series of unwelcome surprises.