New windows in a new build

We moved into a new house 4weeks ago a new build with new windows that came under the heading of luxury specification. It is 04.36 and I’m still awake from the traffic noise. The noise is unbelievable. There are bad drafts, there is so much dust/dirt inside the window panes it’s awful looking. They have put furry draft excluder the whole way around the brand new front door, which is causing it to stick, it’s not straight, surely a new door shouldn’t need so much draft excluder? They have cut holes in the brick work for the patio doors because the hinges didn’t fit otherwise. They rub everytime the door is opened and closed. They have used 5 point locking keys, but they haven’t added strips inside the doors for any locking system. The keys and handle are rusted on the outside. There appears to be water inside the panes of glass. We have been told that the windows & doors are fine apart from 1 window looks bowed, but they have refused to come back to do anything. We were told by the insurance that we aren’t covered for noise disturbances but could possibly if there is water in the glass. I don’t understand why the noise wouldn’t be seen as a problem, we can hear the motorway traffic constantly which is about 200-300 metres away. Sealant outside is messy and in some places has gaps.

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Answer:

Based on the details you’ve provided, it seems like there are several significant issues with the windows, doors, and overall workmanship in your new-build home. Here’s a summary of the problems and some suggestions:

1. Excessive noise from traffic: If the windows are advertised as luxury or high-specification, they should provide adequate soundproofing, especially from nearby road noise. The fact that you can hear the motorway traffic so clearly from 200-300 meters away is a major concern and indicates potential problems with the window installation or glazing quality.

2. Drafts and dust/dirt inside window panes: This suggests poor sealing and installation, allowing air and debris to enter the double-glazed units.

3. Excessive draft excluder on the new front door: A well-fitted new door should not require excessive draft exclusion. The fact that it’s not straight and causing the door to stick is another sign of poor workmanship.

4. Cut-outs in brickwork for patio door hinges: This is an unprofessional solution and could compromise the structural integrity and weather-tightness of the door frame.

5. Rubbing patio doors: Likely due to poor installation and alignment.

6. Lack of locking mechanisms: The absence of proper locking channels or strips defeats the purpose of having multi-point locks.

7. Rusted hardware: Brand new hardware should not be rusting already, indicating poor quality or exposure to moisture.

8. Potential water ingress in glazing units: This is a serious issue and could lead to fogging, condensation, and eventually, seal failure.

9. Messy sealant application: Another sign of shoddy workmanship.

While the insurance company may not cover noise issues, the various defects you’ve described suggest significant breaches of building codes and standards, as well as potential safety concerns. Here are some recommendations:

1. Document everything thoroughly with photos and videos.
2. Escalate the issues with the builder/developer, citing breach of contract and demanding remediation or replacement of the defective windows and doors.
3. Consult with a building inspector or independent expert to assess the situation and provide a professional opinion.
4. If the builder remains uncooperative, consider legal action or reporting them to the relevant authorities for substandard work.
5. Check if your local consumer protection agency or homeowner’s association can assist with mediation or enforcement.

You have a right to expect quality workmanship and materials in a new-build home, especially if it was marketed as a luxury specification. Don’t accept these deficiencies as normal – persist in getting the issues resolved properly.