Living in a new development in North Abingdon

From moving in, looking after your new home and reporting emergencies, to learning about defects, sustainable DIY and lawn care, you'll find lots of useful information below to help you settle in to your new home in North Abingdon quickly and easily.

Moving in

We try to make sure your home is ready for you to move into and that everything is in good working order. We’ll already have checked to see if anything needs repairing (we call these defects in a new home) but sometimes new homes have defects which only get picked up when someone starts living there. 

When you move in, you should check everything works and is fitted properly, including the following.

  • ​Baths, basins and toilets 
  • ​Glass (windows, mirrors and shower screens) 
  • ​Fireplace surrounds 
  • ​Kitchen fittings and appliances 
  • ​Wall tiling 
  • ​Carpets, floor tiling and laminated flooring 

​Every new home is individually built and hand-crafted, so it’s normal to find small differences in the appearance of various elements.  

​You should also check that:  

  • ​ you’ve been given the correct keys for all locks, and that your windows and doors open, close and lock properly
  • ​ all services are connected and in working order.  

Emergencies in your home

Find out what to do and who to call in the event of an emergency in your home; such as a burst mains water pipe, power cut, or if you smell gas.

Find out more

Aftercare in your new-build home

Newly-built homes need time to settle and dry out, so you may have some minor issues in the first year. More major faults with the build or quality are known as defects. Find out more about both. 

Find out more

Looking after your new home

Today’s new homes include lots of improvements in construction but your new home still needs to be run gently for the first few months. Find out how to look after your new home.

Find out more

Sustainable DIY and responsible purchasing

Should you wish to carry out any home improvements or purchase items for your home, please consider the environmental impact.

Find out more

Health and Safety on a new-build site

Find out more about living on a new-build site whether you're inside your home, outside, or travelling round the site.

Find out more

Your garden, boundaries and lawn maintenance

Learn how to look after your new garden and maintain your lawn. Also find information on boundaries and what to do if you have any queries.

Find out more