Careful “running in” of your new home is very important, easy to do and will pay dividends in the long run. This will be discussed during your new home demonstration.
There will inevitably be some variation in the finished appearance of different elements of the construction. This is completely normal and helps make your home unique. However, there are some common issues that sometimes arise after a new home has been built. We have outlined some top tips for dealing with these issues and for taking care of your new home. Please note that the tips cover many aspects of different house types, some of which may not apply to your new home.
Condensation
Normal daily living and the “drying out” process of your new home can create condensation. This happens when steam or water vapour comes into contact with cold surfaces (in the same way that steam in the bathroom condenses on the window). You can reduce condensation by ensuring consistent levels of heating and ventilation. Condensation is common in new homes while construction materials dry out. If it persists, it can sometimes cause mould on walls and ceilings. In exceptional circumstances, condensation and mould can damage clothes, bedding, floor coverings, decorations and the home itself. Therefore, St. Modwen Homes will ensure any ventilation system (including window vents) is fully operational.
Routine maintenance
As you would expect, there are many areas within your new property that will benefit from regular maintenance. I.e. boilers, cylinders, appliances, alarm systems, windows, doors/locks, garage doors, gutters, drains.
Extreme weather conditions
We are not responsible for any damage to your property as a result of extreme weather conditions i.e. storms, high winds, freezing temperatures. So it is important to check external taps (if fitted) to ensure they are lagged and drained. Any problems that arise due to extreme weather conditions should be covered by your own home insurance.
Holidays/extended periods of non-occupancy
Remember to take all necessary precautions before going away on holiday or leaving your home empty a long period of time. Subsequently, we cannot be held responsible for any damage if the correct precautions are not taken.
Window cleaning
Please be aware of the safety risks and possible damage to roof tiles caused by window cleaners standing on the low-level roof to clean the external side of your first-floor windows. Should your windows have easy-clean” hinges, we recommend you take advantage of this by cleaning windows from the inside.
Alteration of your home
Any alteration or extension made to your home following legal completion may adversely affect all or part of your warranty. Please liaise with your St. Modwen Homes regional office if you plan to alter or extend your home. Likewise, you should refer to your local planning authority for further guidance and clarification.
Change of ownership
This warranty is not affected if you sell or let your home. It would help if you could pass on the details about the warranty and what it covers to tenants or subsequent buyers. If you sell your home whilst it is still within warranty, the cover automatically transfers to the new owners.
Your rights
This warranty does not affect your statutory rights. Some manufacturers also offer warranties to St. Modwen Homes customers over and above the initial St. Modwen Homes 2-year warranty.
Your new home will be in warranty for a period of 10 years from legal completion by NHBC, with the first two years covered directly by St. Modwen Homes and backed by NHBCs Resolution Service.
For more information about the policy cover from NHBC, please read their Buildmark policy. Your solicitor will provide you with your NHBC warranty policy certificate, schedule and policy details.
You may also like to refer to NHBCs ‘Guide to your new home” booklet, for an overview of the Buildmark policy and helpful hints on running in your home, maintenance and decorating tips.
We do not protect you against every problem that may occur and you are obliged to carry out maintenance on your home. Several limitations and conditions apply
PLEASE BE AWARE THAT WE WILL ONLY DEAL WITH GENUINE DEFECTS. GENERAL WEAR AND TEAR OR DAMAGE TO THE PROPERTY AFTER LEGAL COMPLETION IS THE HOMEOWNERS RESPONSIBILITY AND SHOULD NOT BE REPORTED TO ST. MODWEN HOMES.
