Rob has today called on Taylor Wimpey to take swift and effective action to rectify the “litany of building errors” identified by residents in their new homes at the first phases of the Loddon Park development, Woodley.
Shortly after moving into their new homes, residents quickly discovered a range of defects, both internal and external, which have in turn led to further problems being uncovered. The issues include -but are not limited to - missing loft insulation, the poor placement of air bricks, insufficient acoustic insulation and wobbling walls; as well as external problems with landscaping and drainage.
Last week, Rob met with Phil Chapman, Managing Director for Taylor Wimpey West London, prior to visiting residents at the Loddon Park development to assess the progress that has been made. Whilst Mr Chapman tried to offer his reassurances that Taylor Wimpey is committed to rectifying the errors, residents continued to express their exasperation at the situation in which they find themselves.
Rob assured residents that he would hold Taylor Wimpey to account for the shoddy workmanship and would continue to put pressure on the company to remedy all existing defects as swiftly and unobtrusively as possible. He has also requested that each household provide him with details of individual complaints, which he will relay directly to Mr Chapman for further investigation.
In addition, he has requested that Mr Chapman visits the development in ten days’ time to meet with residents, during which they should be provided with a direct update on planned works and the estimated timescales.
Following the meetings, Rob said: “I understand completely the ongoing frustration felt by my constituents, who, after purchasing what they believed to be structurally-sound, well-built homes, have encountered a litany of building errors and unacceptable defects.
“Not only are residents indignant about the errors themselves, but also about the attitude of Taylor Wimpey in planning and undertaking the remedial works. My constituents have requested complete honesty and transparency, demanding that Taylor Wimpey commit to a more holistic approach to its action, rather than simply responding to individual concerns as and when they are uncovered.
“As such, residents have compiled a list of community concerns which I have raised directly with Mr Chapman and requested that each point is addressed in full. In our meeting on Friday, Mr Chapman expressed to me his understanding of the problem and the desire of his team to work harder to rectify the issues identified. He also agreed to investigate any individual complaints raised with me pertaining to each individual household affected and I will be forwarding these details shortly.
“In addition, I have requested that Mr Chapman visit the Loddon Park development in the next ten days to update residents on the progress that has been made.
“The excessive list of problems identified by residents, both individually and collectively, shows clearly the unacceptable level of sub-standard workmanship – indeed, it raises serious concerns about why the properties were ever signed-off in the first place. This is something that I will bring to the attention of the Housing Minister.
“In light of this catalogue of errors, I have enquired as to whether Taylor Wimpey will direct all of its available resources to repairing the houses that have already been sold, diverting, if necessary, their attention from other houses on the site that are in the process of construction.
“My constituents deserve much better and I will see to it that Taylor Wimpey delivers on its commitments.”