Design fault of a new house

hypheni

Couple of weeks back before our final move in, I discovered that the utility door under the staircase has less than 60cm door width which cannot accommodate a standard washing machine. When I checked with one of my friends from the same builder's first phase, the size was 69cm. My neighbours are facing the similar issue and the builder has not yet provided any resolution to this. The estate is still under construction and we are the very first few to move in.

Can anyone provide any advice what can be done as a next step?

10-10-20

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2058306519/design-fault-of-a-new-house

Can I ask if the area under the stairs defined as a utility room or a storage cupboard by the builder? Thinking out loud, if they didn't specifically state that the intention of the room was for managing clothes then perhaps they were under no requirement to fit a larger door?

hypheni

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120898280#Comment_120898280

The intension was to have a washing machine there as they have fitted the in-let and out-let for the washing machine as well as an exhaust fan. To make these new houses tiny they decided to not give a dedicated utility room but a under the staircase one. We were fine with it except the fact that we cannot fit a washer/dryer of our choice.

10-10-20

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120898340#Comment_120898340

If that intention was communicated to the builder in advance, and they are a trustworthy type, then perhaps they will be able to correct the mistake if you flag it as a snag as long as there is no structural concern around the existing opening.

If there is a structural limitation... then you're into a different ball-game. Others on here would be able to advise as to what would be the next step better than I would. You might consider posting into the Construction and Planning forum and link back to this post for better input.

https://www.boards.ie/categories/construction-planning

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120898340#Comment_120898340

You can though, plenty of 60cm wide washing machines out there. Here's one for example. Samsung Series 5 Ecobubble Washing Machine 9kg White| DID.ie - DID Electrical

muffler

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120898454#Comment_120898454

OP said the door was less than 60cm.

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120898472#Comment_120898472

Plenty of smaller than 60cm washing machines out there too. That one is only 55cm deep, turn it sideways to get it through the door.

Why is everything a problem? 🙄

hypheni

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120898515#Comment_120898515

Well, that's what I did with my last Currys order. Cancelled the original Series 6 Samsung washing machine which had a 60x60cm width and depth. With the current LG one, its spec says 56.5cm depth and I bought it. But in reality the depth measured as 59cm with door dismantled and trying to push it inside on the depth side. It all failed because of the dial button at the top centre of the machine. Now, coming to smaller size washing machine, why would I compromise on the machine size for a builder's fault.

Thanks @10-10-20 for the link. Let me post it there..

The dial button likely comes off, pull it.

hypheni

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120898836#Comment_120898836

That something useful I must say. Just saw a quick video tut as well. Thanks @[Deleted User]

Mrs OBumble

why would I compromise on the machine size for a builder's fault.

What do the plans show?

This could be a builders fault - if the plans show wider.

Or an architectural fault - if they didn't think of it.

Or a smaller house footprint featue -if it was designed that way.

hypheni

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120899635#Comment_120899635

Thanks @Mrs OBumble for the post. The plan that I can find from the contract does not show any measurements.

pat_sconce

Its hardly a "design fault" of an entire house. One small door has an issue for you because you can't get something you wanted in and you based your thoughts on a different house and did not check if it would be the same for your house. Never make assumptions.

Talk to the builder and see if a larger opening can be made. If not, buy a machine that fits