'It is HELL': Young Leeds couple's dream new-build Seacroft home has 'mud-bath' garden and faults with house

Joanna Clarke, 22, and her partner Sean Cullen, 32, were two of the first people to move into the Keepmoat Affinity estate in Seacroft in December 2018.

Due to the weather at the time of their original move to Blencarn Crescent, no turf was installed for their arrival at the £159,000 semi-detached home.

However, despite grass being laid in the garden twice since they moved in by contractors, the couple claim the lack of a drainage system has left them with a garden that resembles a festival field - with rainwater soaking carpets in their kitchen.

Now they are taking their battle to the developers, as devastated Joanna said they "have had enough".

She told the YEP: "We have rang Keepmoat every day.

"We have had to replace carpets and redecorate inside due to the water from the garden, it is hell."

A spokesman for Keepmoat Homes said the company was aware of the issues and have plans in place to meet the couple to rectify the issues.

Joanna said the developers turfed the garden in early 2019 but that problems started almost immediately.

She added: "The property is not draining water away naturally, which means there is standing water running towards the house.

"The developers came and replaced the turf again last summer (2019) but by October and November it was just like a swamp again.

"We have not had a garden in more than three months."

After moving into the home, the couple also say they discovered a list of faults including cupboards which needed to be realigned and doors that needed repainting.

Joanna, who works as a buyer, said: "Some of my neighbours seem to have had similar problems.

"There are a lot of faults with the property.

"We have been living in a nightmare."

Keepmoat described the Affinity estate as the "ideal location" for a selection of "modern, high spec, low energy homes".

Their website states: "Whether you’re buying for your first home, or your next one, this is the perfect setting."

Joanna said the ordeal had seriously affected her mental health and begged the developers to rectify their property.

She added: "I have just had enough of it.

"I have called them every single day to try and get through to Keepmoat and tell them what the problems are.

"The house is in one of the worst conditions on the estate.

"We just want our garden backs so our dogs can play out and we can enjoy time out there."

A spokesman for Keepmoat Homes said: “We are aware of the issues Miss Clarke has faced, and apologise for any inconvenience caused.

"We have been in regular contact regarding her home, and have plans in place to meet with her this week to try and rectify any issues she may have with her property.

"It is our priority at Keepmoat to build high-quality developments, and want every customer to enjoy their new home.”