OFT repeats calls for homebuilders to protect consumers

Date:Monday 29th September 2008
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A "second chance" to improve consumer protection within the homebuilding sector has been given by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT).

The OFT initially made the recommendations in the Barker Review in 2004.

When the industry failed to take action, the OFT launched the Home Building Market Study.

Specific targets and criteria for success have now been detailed and the OF will recommend a statutory redress mechanism if the industry again fails.

Catriona Bright, of New Build Inspections, said the lack of call for legislative change was "disappointing" and added that she was "not wholly optimistic" about housebuilders' capability to improve consumers' situations significantly.

The OFT's market study into the housebuilding sector found that, while it was competitive, many homebuyers experience faults in new homes or delays when moving in.

There can also be difficulties with the sales process, such as the clarity of information provided and terms in contracts that are potentially unfair.