How Chinese Homebuyers in the UK Can Protect Their Rights
A recent “luxury flat dispute” in London has drawn widespread attention. Two homeowners have sued their developer for £2 million after the hot water system in their new-build apartments repeatedly failed. While the case has yet to be decided, it highlights an issue many property buyers tend to overlook:
When a newly purchased home shows serious defects, how exactly can we protect our legal rights in the UK?
1. Case Summary: A £1 Million “No Hot Water Flat”
The two claimants are owners of separate apartments in a high-end residential block in Bloomsbury, London.
They bought their two-bedroom flats in 2014 and 2016 respectively, both for close to £1 million.
The developer was the well-known Regal Homes Construction Ltd.
The building advertised luxury features such as German-designed kitchens, marble bathrooms, and concierge services.
However, after moving in, the owners discovered one shocking issue — they could barely take a normal shower at home.
The hot water system provided only “a few seconds of warm water” before turning cold, and often stopped working altogether.
As a result, both households had to shower at the gym or at work for long periods of time.
After multiple complaints to the developer yielded no solution, the owners filed a High Court claim alleging defective heating and hot water systems, seeking compensation for repair costs and rental losses.
The case is scheduled for a full trial in 2027.
2. Core Issue: Who Is Responsible for the “Systemic Defect”?
The developer argues that:
“The issue lies with the individual HIU units inside each flat, not the central system.”
The owners argue that:
“The defect is in the central hot water system itself, making the entire building unfit for occupation.”
Such disputes are not uncommon in the UK.
For blocks of flats, systems such as hot water, heating, drainage, and lifts are usually part of the common parts, maintained by the developer or the eventual management company.
Any design or installation flaw can affect the habitability of the entire building.
3. What This Case Teaches Chinese Homebuyers in the UK: Three Key Points
1️⃣ Before Buying — Always Check the Building Warranty
New-build homes in the UK typically come with a 10-year structural warranty (NHBC, LABC, or Premier Guarantee).
This warranty may cover issues involving plumbing, heating, and other building systems.
Before exchanging contracts, your solicitor should confirm:
- Is the warranty properly registered?
- What exactly does it cover?
- Are defects within the first 2 years claimable directly from the developer?
If you’re buying a converted property, be extra cautious — warranty coverage may vary significantly.
2️⃣ After Moving In — Document Everything and Notify in Writing
If defects appear after completion, you should:
- Notify the developer or management company immediately in writing (email or letter).
- Record the time, frequency, and nature of the issue.
- Keep photos or videos.
- If ignored, instruct an independent engineer to issue an expert report.
These records become crucial evidence if legal action is required later.
3️⃣ If Negotiation Fails — Legal Routes You Can Take
If the developer refuses to fix the issue or denies responsibility, homeowners may pursue:
• Civil Claim
Based on breach of contract or negligence.
Claims above £10,000 typically proceed in the County Court or the High Court.
• Arbitration / Mediation
Especially relevant when warranty providers are involved.
• Collective Action via the Management Company
If multiple flats are affected, owners can act collectively, spreading legal costs.
Key Lesson: Even Million-Pound Flats Can Have Serious Defects
For Chinese buyers in the UK, we strongly recommend:
✓ During purchase: ask your solicitor to thoroughly check the developer’s record and warranty terms.
✓ After moving in: report problems in writing and keep all records.
✓ When seeking compensation: obtain an independent expert report before taking formal action.
Do not accept excuses such as “it’s just a minor issue” or “the system needs time to adjust.”
Under UK law, safe living conditions and essential utilities are a legal right.
If your home has structural or systemic defects, you are fully entitled to demand repairs or compensation.
A Home Is Not Just an Asset — It Is the Foundation of Daily Life
This case serves as a reminder to all homebuyers:
Even the most luxurious development requires legal awareness and proper due diligence.
If your home has no hot water, has water leaks, or suffers from structural problems, do not simply tolerate it.
UK law recognises your right to a home that is fit for habitation.
The first step to defending that right is having the confidence to say “No”.
If you are facing similar issues, such as developers refusing to repair defects or homes with serious construction problems, our legal team can assist with:
- Reviewing your purchase contract and developer obligations
- Drafting legal letters and formal claims
- Arranging independent expert reports
- Negotiating or litigating on your behalf
