Defects of new-build dwellings constructed to building regulations and to ‘The Code for Sustainable Homes’

Abstract

Defect is an important aspect to address for enhancing quality of homes. However, there is little research into defects of new-build homes in the UK constructed to the 'Code for Sustainable Homes' which has been introduced to the UK building industry since 2007 as an environmental assessment tool. The aim of this paper is to contribute to knowledge of the defect profile of new homes regarding the defect number, type, location, severity and responsible trades. The research was carried out through analysing defect records for 327 homes in the UK constructed to the Code in comparison with to Building Regulations. In total 3209 defects were identified, with the mean average of 9.8 defects per home. Despite some extreme cases 91.4% of the dwellings studied were reported of 20 or less defects each. It is concluded that the defect profile of UK new-build homes since 2007 has improved in number, diversity and severity of defects. Nevertheless, kitchens and bathrooms remained as two most defective areas, with plumbers and painters/decorators being most often tasked for rectifications. With the evidence presented no clear relationship was observed between the defect profile of the homes and their performance standards or build methods adopted.