Enhanced Consumer Protection on New Homes Purchases by Simon Brooks

As from the 1st April 2010, a new consumer code was introduced which enhances consumer protection for those buying new properties from house builders.

Previously, buyers were somewhat at the mercy of developers in regard to the terms of the contract, the reservation fee payable and most importantly, when the new building would be complete and the contract completed. Some of the protective measures in the scheme include entitlement to an agreement which will set out the full terms of the transaction to include an ability to have the reservation fee refundable, reliable information and a realistic estimation of the completion date and in some cases, a fixed completion date as opposed to the rather frustrating ability of the builder to string out the construction and therefore the completion of the property.

Builders are also required to put in place a clear complaints handling procedure and if the buyer is not satisfied with any response to a complaint, the Home Warranty Body will intervene and decide whether the buyer has further cause for complaint to the Independent Dispute Resolution Scheme. In some cases, the builder will be required to remedy the defect and to compensate the buyer up to £15,000.00.

We feel this is a very positive step in what can sometimes be a rather uncertain process of buying a new build property and we are sure buyers can only benefit from this change in legislation.

Brooks Babes complete run for Sport Relief!

On 21st March, in aid of Sport Relief 2010 and under the name of The Brooks Babes, Shirah Real, Kate Brooks & Nikki Miller set out on a 6 mile journey, and when we say journey, we mean run!

The weather was uncharacteristically kind and it turned out to be one of the warmest days of the year so far, which certainly caused some difficulties at the 3 mile marker, but certainly beat the hail that accompanied Race for Life 2009!

The "babes" said that the morning was very pleasant with an excellent atmosphere and one of them (with a well developed competitive streak) managed to clear the course in 45 minutes. The other two girls came in not long after at 50 and 57 minutes and we are, quite rightly, proud of them.

Given that, between the three of them, there was a hamstring injury, sore calf muscles and an undiagnosed strain on the knee (before the race started) the morning was a big success and the "babes" felt that taking part was thoroughly worthwhile and enjoyable. Congratulations to Shirah, Kate and Nikki for raising £300 for Sport Relief (and making it into the office the following day!).