19 Jul 2016

Report on new build housing published

Includes key input from CIAT

A report on new build housing has been published this week which includes key input from CIAT.

The report, Inquiry into the Quality of New Build Housing in England was published on 13 July by the All Party Parliamentary Group for Excellence in the Built Environment.

The Commission of this inquiry comprises members of both Houses of Parliament and senior members of the construction professions. CIAT was involved in the consultation and submitted evidence for inclusion.

The inquiry was sparked by MPs responding to constituents' problems about new homes and the lack of adequate recourse to builders and warranty providers.

Key recommendations of the report include:

  •     A New Homes ombudsman
  •     Standardised sales contracts
  •     A mandatory right to inspect properties before completion;
  •     Compulsory information packs for buyers
  •     A review of warranties
  •     An increase in skills training


Kevin Crawford MCIAT, Vice President-Technical who led the response on behalf of CIAT was invited to give evidence at the inquiry said: 'A key factor facing the industry is rising to the challenge of providing quality new homes. CIAT and its members are ideally qualified and suited to meet this challenge. Being invited to give evidence is testament to the continuing recognition of CIAT, the discipline of Architectural Technology and its members' position in the built environment.'
 
The full report and CIAT's contribution can be viewed here.