In need of repair

Nov 19 2006 By The Sunday Sun

Builders Bellway Homes North East jumped into action when I asked for an explanation about Andrew Hutchinson's complaint.

Andrew told me how his new home needed various repairs after he moved in.

Now the Newcastle-based company has given Andrew top priority to clear his list of outstanding problems.

Bellway will re-surface the crumbling drive at his house in Houghton- le-Spring, Tyne and Wear, after initially refusing to do so.

And further work will be carried out on walls, a door and a window.

Andrew said: "I have a decaying drive, my doors do not close properly, I have an ill-fitted window, holes in my walls, and absolutely no faith whatsoever in Bellway.

"I truly wish that we had never purchased this property.

"My wife and I have been made to feel as if we are nothing but an aggravation and irritant. We have had to do battle all the way and customer service has been nothing but diabolical.

"My patience has finally worn out and my stress levels have been pushed so far that I made the decision to ask for your help."

Andrew said he was constantly on the phone or writing emails asking for remedial work to be carried out.

He said: "My major concern is the state of my drive but Bellway would not do anything about it until Mr Justice got involved."

Barry Miller, managing director of Bellway North East, confirmed action would be taken.

He said: "The Tarmac manufacturer advised that the surface of the drive appeared to be in good condition and of the appropriate quality.

"Our construction manager has since taken another look at the drive and further to the inspection we have taken the decision to re-surface."

There was further good news to pass on.

Barry said: "We have asked our window and dry-lining contractor to contact Mr Hutchinson today to arrange an appointment to address the issue of the French door, window, and making good of walls where required.

"We have requested that this work be carried out as a matter of priority."

Grateful bank worker Andrew, 31, told me that the arrangements were already in hand. Bellway admitted delays in resolving the complaint and offered their apologies.

And they also promised to keep an eye on the progress of remedial work.

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