A developer in Edinburgh, Robertson, recently won the ‘Housebuilder of the Year’ award for the second consecutive year, despite facing claims of negligence in the construction of over 700 council homes. Tenants living in these homes have reported various issues such as mould, fire safety concerns, leaking roofs, missing sealant, lack of ventilation, black specks in tap water, sewage leaks, faulty electrics, and randomly-sounding fire alarms.
The defects in the properties were only discovered long after the occupants had moved in, causing inconvenience and safety risks to the residents. The council and Robertson were accused of compromising the safety of the tenants by cutting corners in the construction process. Despite winning awards for being considerate constructors, the company’s reputation has been tarnished by these revelations.
Residents of the affected properties have expressed their frustration and concern over the situation, with one tenant from Parkgrove Terrace highlighting the ongoing issues of damp and mould in her flat. She called for the awards given to Robertson to be returned, emphasizing the impact of these construction flaws on people’s lives.
Robertson Partnership Homes, the developer responsible for the construction of these properties, has stated that they are working closely with the City of Edinburgh Council to carry out necessary repairs. The council’s housing convener, Councillor Jane Meagher, has reassured tenants that the quality and safety of their homes are a top priority, and independent inspections will be conducted once all repairs are completed.
Despite the company’s efforts to rectify the situation, tenants are still facing challenges and waiting for repairs to be completed. The lack of transparency in the construction process and the delayed response to the issues have raised questions about accountability and oversight in the housing construction industry.
It is crucial for developers and local authorities to prioritize the safety and well-being of residents in all housing projects. The case of the negligent construction of council homes in Edinburgh serves as a reminder of the importance of proper quality control and oversight to prevent such issues in the future.
