Issue with intergrated washer cupboard

[jackielechang]

I moved into a new build a year ago.  Within a week I had raised this particular issue/snag. 

Our integrated washing machine cupboard door will not open fully as it hits against the radiator next to it (it's in a utility room right behind the door) - meaning that the soap/conditioner tray will not fully extend to easily fill or be removed for cleaning.  I have raised it with the builders many times. 

They have visited many times to understand and solve the issue.  The solution I would recommend is moving the washing machine to another cupboard.  Their solution is to switch the door to open the other way around.  However as it is next to a door it would mean a very awkward process to use the washing machine.  It only happens in our home as we are "mirror" of the other homes on the development.

They have said that "However I understand that you were able to view the utility layout, prior to going forward with the sale as this was one of our completed plots. Our position remains that we will not be able to arrange for the washing machine to be moved."
That if I am not happy, I can escalate for independent review from NHBC to see if they conformed with Technical Standards.

The point they raise about having seen the layout is true - however until you use the solution you don't find out it doesn't work.  And surely if they are changing the door around they are changing the layout and usability? 

Has anyone experienced something similar or offer advice? 
As I assume going to NHBC they will just say it's as plan so they don't have to fix.

[Maxell]

Hi , I would say the builders are correct.
They are offering to change the door around. Often doors need to be shut before others can be opened making things awkward , this is a compromise between spaces.

[jackielechang]

Thanks for the reply - I assume they are right on this.  But it grates given that a person wouldn't be able to get to the washing machine except really leaning over the door.

Attached an image with the door off, which I have had to do in order to use the machine.

[New Home Expert]

Having viewed the photo, I would agree that fitting the integrated door on the other side of the washing machin would solve the problem, although, it would appear it may create another problem.

Another solution would be to have no door on your washing machine as in many thousands of homes.
The washing machine is in a utility room after all.

You didn't name the housebuilder, but their response to encourage you to waste your time,  escalating it to a NOT independent NHBC who would dismiss it, as it is clearly NOT a warranty issue or breach of standards speaks volumes of them.

[jackielechang]

Thanks for the replies!

House builder is Taylor Wimpey.

They will be cutting away half our master bedroom ceiling in the New Year and replacing the whole shower in en-suite due to issues with beams and shower tray!

So they are fixing things.

[New Home Expert]

Fixing things? 
Not what you would expect when you move into a new home, to have it dismantled due to defects.
Make sure when it is all over you get a few thousand compensation.

[jackielechang]

Under what circumstances would they offer compensation, they will surely argue they are carrying out their obligations to rectify the issues?

[New Home Expert]

They have already failed in that they have sold you a defective product.
If as I suspect the remedial works cause you nuisance and disruption, you are due justifiable compensation.
You may for example have to take time off work or have limited access top parts of your home or worse case have to move out for a number of weeks.

Do not accept your home just being fixed as a good outcome and think well of Taylor Wimpey for doing it.

[jackielechang]

It's been a while so I thought I would post an update.  There is still no resoluution to this situation.  I have emailed stating this:

Regarding the washing machine if the door is reversed then it will no longer be accessible anyone with a disability or any wheelchair users and so is not an acceptable solution.  There are two options:
 
Option A: they move the integrated appliance to the other end of the run so that the cupboard door functions properly, and the machine is accessible and maintainable.
 
Option B: re-do the kickboard so that it finishes before the washing machine, make good any of the surrounding joinery and flooring and provide a freestanding appliance to go in that space which removes the integrated door and issue.
 
My house is one of the 15 on the development highlighted by planning permission and by Taylor Wimpey to be Category 2: Accessible and adaptable dwellings M4(2).  The soluiton they say is all they will offer is to have the door open the other way.  This will leave no room for a wheelchair.  So won't meet:

Habitable rooms
Living, kitchen and eating areas
2.24 To provide usable living spaces and easy, step-free access between a living area, a WC and the
principal private entrance, key accommodation should comply with all of the following.
a. Within the entrance storey there is a living area (which may be a living room, dining room or a
combined kitchen and dining room).
b. A minimum 1200mm clear space is provided in front of and between all kitchen units and
appliances.


Sorry for the long post.  Is this something NHBC will cover or do I, as I think I will have to, go to Small Claims Court?

I have carried out a SAR - and they have an email where they imply they are worried others will claim if they do this...see attachment.

Thoughts gratefully received.

David

[Maxell]

Hi ,is it not possible to move the radiator over ? It can't be much it needs to move or swap to a smaller double ?
Maxell

[New Home Expert]

A clear case and demonstration of the culture of poor customer care at Taylor Wimpey.
this is still unresolved in 14 months?  Absolute disgraceful.

It could be sorted out. It would be fairly straightforward but all Taylor Wimpey are concerned with is others wanting remedial works also.  I would add that after tow years, if the other homes have not written and complained Taylor Wimpey would not be required to sort it under the warranty.

Clearly the home dos not meet the required criteria. Perhaps you should contact your LA planning department or Building Control.
Writ to the NHBC and make a clam also. I would expect (hope) they would agree this can and should be sorted out.