Had new UPVC windows fitted but can hear lots of street noise. Would this contravine the sale of goods act?

Question

Recently replaced older UPVC windows with new ones from Anglian Windows. When the sales man came up to visit we advised that we were looking to get new ones as we live on a main road and the current windows were letting in heaps of noise. He said that we'd really notice a difference. Now they are in, they are no better than the older ones!! I've complained till I'm blue in the face and I'm now in the position of having to get them replaced (again!) by another company. They're chasing for the balance of the payment and I just wondered if installing windows which do not cut out the vast majority of noise contravines the Sale of Goods Act?

Answer 1

If the Company Rep told you that you don't have to pay for anything until you are completely satisfied, then, if you have not signed to say that you are satisfied, then I would think that you are within your rights to complain.
If the windows are guaranteed as reducing traffic noise, then they should act on that guarantee.
I would not pay anything until you are completely satisfied. If you are not happy with them, ask them to replace them with ones that do keep the noise out, as they had stated in the first place.
I think trading standards would help you on this one if you look them up in your local area.

Answer 2

You would need to have some proof that the noise is no less - possibly by 'before' and 'after' noise level monitoring. Assuming you didnt have a 'before' test done, you may find it difficult.
I would contact Trading Standards - they may agree to come and monitor your noise level and compare it with neighbours who do not have double glazing, or who have double glazing which is more effective.
Certainly if Anglian are pressing for payment, you have to do something in order to put in a defence or you will end up with a CCJ against you.

Answer 3

ContravEne. Unless its a British spelling thing (ie color vs colour).


Noise is a subjective thing unless you have measured it with a decibel meter. Since you didn't measure noise levels before they were installed, it will be hard to prove that the windows didn't make a difference. How much insulation do you have in your walls? They could say that the noise is coming through the walls, not the windows.