Families move out of 'nightmare' new-build homes plagued by defects, damp and mould

The number of complaints to the New Homes Ombudsman Service (NHOS) has more than tripled in a year, according to its latest annual report. The UK-wide service received just over 1,800 complaints in 2025-26, up from fewer than 600 the previous year. Defects and snagging were the most common issues raised. The ombudsman says the increase partly reflects more homeowners being eligible to use the service, as well as greater awareness of it. Published September 26