A Portslade father believes black mould caused by leaks and building defects in his new-build home are making his children ill.
Since moving into his new build home with his family in Oak Point, Mile Oak in May last year, Jason Brown says he’s reported numerous defects to developer Clarion Housing Group.
Black mould in the family bathroom is beginning to affect the lung health of two of his children who have cystic fibrosis.
After Brighton and Hove News contacted Clarion, the developer has organised for contractors to visit the Brown’s property to fix a list of eight outstanding defects which need repair under the developer’s warranty.
Mr Brown said: “We’re heartbroken really because we’ve been living in rented accommodation for most of our lives so when we were able to get the opportunity to actually buy for the first time we were really happy.
“Our own property, security for the kids but even in all the rental properties that we’ve had we’ve never had many problems as we have in this property, which is brand new
“It’s heartbreaking because it was our dream to own a property.”
Two of Mr Brown’s four children, Leila, 14 and Fraser, 8, both now need additional antibiotics alongside their treatments for their condition which affects the lungs and respiratory system.
Six defects in the property have already been repaired by Clarion, including faulty wiring on solar panels and blown electric sockets in the kitchen over Christmas.
Mr Brown said he reported a list of eight outstanding defects but that there has been little to no communication since February.
A leak coming in the master bedroom from the loft has caused staining and bubbles in the paint.
Black mould on the floors of the family bathroom and the en-suite in the master bedroom has ruined the lino.
Mr Brown says that the defect period, where Clarion holds a duty to repair any defects in a new build home under the developer’s warranty, is up at the end of the month.
North Portslade Councillor Peter Atkinson said: “This has been an ongoing situation with many different repairs and issues needing attention.
“Clarion have not been timely or effective in their responses which is really disappointing, particularly given the circumstances of the Browns.
“I would also ask that they extend the developer’s warranty in this case.”
I am sorry to read of your problem. I note the bathroom is a problem, I assume you leave the window open to after showers and have a dehumidifier in the house Here is my tip, I wipe down the wet shower wall and base of bath with a squeegee [spelling?] after use, it removes a lot of water that would other
wise have too evaporate. All the DIY places sell them.