New Builds and Street Adoption (Barratt Homes)

Member Name: Gmac

Product:	Barratt Homes
Date:	14/08/08 (336 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: None

Disadvantages: Potential liability for repair costs and liability to Mortgage Lender

Scholars Gate, Stafford. I was in the process of buying a property there before my solicitor found that Barratt's had not approached the local council for Road Adoption and had not paid for an indemnity for Clause 38. As it stands the council has no obligation to adopt the road nor have Barratt's any obligation to complete it, leaving the new householders accountable for costs £1000's to bring the road up to speck for council adoption.
I'm not sure why Barratt's have not resolved this as mortgage lenders are very reluctant to lend against properties on private roads. Those who have obtained mortgages and their solicitors could be liable to the mortgage lender if it has not been declared that Barrett's have failed to obtained an agreement with the council regarding street adoption.
With all new builds there should be an agreement between the developer and the local council regarding street adoption, best check before paying.
Aug 2009 Now moved in and have been generally impressed with the after care service provided by Barratts. having a good site manager made all the difference.

Summary: Check that the new build has has the local council agreement for street adoption.