Steve Figg Builder Essex: Legal Battle Over Home Extension

Steve Figg was ordered to pay £85,000 to Rob and Lucy Davies for damage caused to their home. This case escalated from a home extension project to a legal battle involving police custody and significant financial penalties for the builder. The Davies contracted Figg to build a rear extension featuring a kitchen and an open-plan living area, paying him £44,000 for the work.

However, the construction was halted by Basildon Council’s building control team just two months after it began due to 22 breaches of building regulations. The unfinished work left the Davies’ home in a dangerous state, with parts exposed and at risk of collapse. Rob Davies described their home as looking like “a bomb site” due to the construction work.

In a dramatic turn, Figg reported the couple to police, claiming he wanted to kill them. As a result, the Davies spent 22 hours in police custody after Figg alleged harassment against them. This incident highlights not only the personal toll on homeowners but also raises questions about homeowner rights during construction disputes.

The couple eventually spent £28,000 securing their property after work was halted. Figg pleaded guilty to his breaches and received a 12-month prison sentence, suspended for two years. He must also wear an electronically monitored tag for six months.

The situation has drawn attention from local authorities regarding construction safety and compliance. Officials have noted that this case illustrates the risks homeowners face when construction projects go wrong. The problem was not just delay or poor workmanship; it was repeated non-compliance that left a family dealing with a property described in court as unsafe.

As the legal ramifications unfold, observers are closely watching how this case might influence future regulations surrounding building practices in Essex. Still, no timeline has been shared regarding potential changes that may arise from this incident.

Figg’s statement reflects his acknowledgment of mistakes: “I’m not a liar; I’m not a conman. I made mistakes and I am sorry.” However, the impact on the Davies remains significant as they navigate the aftermath of this troubling experience.