Floor problems in new build bought from Southwark Council

[jazzeyb]

I bought a new build flat on the East Dulwich Estate from Southwark Council just over a year ago. After about 6 months I noticed that considerable gaps were appearing around the edges of the floor where there had been any weight, such as furniture or even objects that weren't too heavy like my computer. The gaps are where the floor meets the skirting board, in effect the floor has sunk around the edges. Also there are areas of unevenness across the floor. I went back to Southwark with this problem and they did nothing. I went through the CAB to raise a Stage 1 complaint. After a lot more correspondence and a couple of meetings it was suggested that they replace the beading to cover up the gaps with no further investigation offered as to what may be happening underneath the floor.

Has anyone had similar experiences with these flats or has anyone advice to offer?

Thanks.

[Dulwich61]

As buyer of a new build you should have 10 year insurance cover through NHBC for any defects in construction. Did CAB not mention that to you?

[ruffers]

Not necessarily, other new build guarantees are available.

I'd be interested to know if they're compulsory though.

[James Barber]

Hi jazzeyb,

In your shoes I would contact my building insurer for them to comment.

This must have a cause and you need peace of mind it's not a problem.

Equally you could ask a local councillor for support - they would ask officers for a copy of any technical report reassuring you and them not a substantive problem.

[Cyclemonkey]

If it is laminate flooring it should be fairly easy to take up a few bits to take a peek at what is underneath. Most purpose built flats tend to have concrete hardstanding between floors - our purpose built 1930s flat certainly has as did the 1980s ex council flat we lived in before.