The residents of 53 Agar Grove in Camden, London are enduring a “daily living nightmare”, as surveyors have deemed their newly built block of flats unsuitable. The leaseholders claim they have spent substantial sums on legal fees while battling insurers and developers over the issues.
One resident purchased his two-bedroom flat in 2019 for £850,000 and expressed how the experience has been “life-ruining.” The problems reported include:
- Foundation issues.
- Cracks in the walls.
- Rotting timber frames.
- Collapsed bathroom floors.
- Water damage.
- Malfunctioning window frames and doors.
An independent survey conducted last March for the developer, Prime Metro Properties, recommended that the building be considered for demolition and rebuilding. The 150-page report cited serious concerns about inherent defects affecting the building’s stability and integrity, stating that no viable structural remedial works could resolve the issues.
Daniel Bruce, who claims to have spent £100,000 on legal fees, spoke of how this experience has completely altered the course of his life, robbing him of his future, financial security, and mental well-being. Alexandra Druzhinin, another leaseholder, shared how the ordeal has left her emotionally broken, paralysed and constantly in distress.
Holborn and St Pancras MP, Sir Keir Starmer, raised the case with the government, expressing his disappointment at the lack of progress. The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities intervened, condemning the behaviour of the insurance company Acasta European Insurance Company Ltd. The government spokesperson described the situation faced by Agar Grove residents as “deplorable” and is seeking a suitable resolution.
The developer, Cite Construction, claims to have been informed of the building’s problems but allegedly failed to address them. Salus Ltd, the government-approved building control inspector, endorsed Cite’s work, leaving the developer confident in its compliance with regulations during construction.
Despite the uncertainty and complexity of the situation, Cite Construction, Salus, and Acasta European Insurance Company Ltd say they are open to cooperating with leaseholders and providing any necessary information to resolve the matter.
Camden Council is actively supporting the leaseholders and exploring enforcement options urgently.
The authorities and involved parties are continuing to find a resolution but the situation has left residents struggling to cope while their ‘dream homes’ remain a nightmare.