Sussex flats costs up 60% as defects found after contractor collapse
Summary
Adur District Council says its 49-flat housing scheme in Southwick, West Sussex has risen in cost by 60% after its main contractor collapsed and serious hidden defects were uncovered when work resumed. The council is now carrying out remedial works and will not allow occupation until the building is formally signed off as complete, structurally sound and safe.
Why it matters
The case highlights the risk of latent defects emerging late in a project, particularly where a contractor fails and replacement works expose incomplete or substandard construction. Residential surveyors may see similar issues in inspections, snagging, defect diagnosis and due diligence on partially completed or distressed schemes.
Key points
- Project cost increased from £12.2m to £19.6m after contractor collapse and defect remediation.
- Hidden defects included faulty cladding, water ingress, condensation damage and incomplete drainage works.
- Replacement contractor Cheesmur took over after Westridge Construction entered administration.
- Council says no tenants will move in until the building is formally signed off as safe and complete.
- A lessons-learned review is underway to improve future risk management.
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