ᐅ Handle position on window not centered – defect?

Hello,

For our single-family home currently under construction, we chose anthracite-colored windows on the outside. The inside of these windows is white. We also decided on the opening directions of the windows. However, we did not specify or approve any further details with our site manager regarding the windows.

The windows have been delivered and installed. They look great until we noticed the position of the handles. They are not centered vertically but rather located in the lower third of the windows. Here are a few pictures:

Of course, we expected the handles to be centered vertically on the windows. Our site manager says this is standard practice and has “always been done this way” by the company, so it is not considered a construction defect.

However, when we look at the handle positions in our current rental apartment and consult other homebuilders, construction companies, and window manufacturers, we come to a different conclusion. In those cases, the handles are centrally positioned, or if no other information is provided, a centered position is assumed.

Our site manager and the contracted window manufacturer explain this positioning with a specific grid system, where the handle height depends on the window height. Here is the document they sent us after installation and upon request:

This explanation makes sense and is understandable. It reduces costs by limiting the number of standard gear mechanisms that need to be produced.

However, we were not informed about this beforehand and are very dissatisfied with the result. After all, we will be seeing these windows multiple times a day for many years.

Does this issue constitute a defect that must be corrected?

Thank you in advance.
Benjamin

BennyBvB schrieb:

Does this situation qualify as a defect that needs to be corrected?

Did you specifically order windows with the handle in the middle? If not, this is not a defect.
It’s inconvenient, but it cannot be changed.

This is not a construction defect, but a lack of coordination. The building company delivered the ergonomically better solution without consulting you. It would be quite normal if this stopped bothering you after a short time.

nordanney schrieb:

Did you specifically order windows with the handle in the middle? If not, it is not a defect.
It’s unfortunate, but it cannot be changed.

Thank you for the quick reply.
No, the handle position was not discussed. As laypeople, we didn’t think about this point because we were not aware of any other option until then.

Is there no obligation on the part of the site manager/window manufacturer to provide this information?
We did not receive any offer or order confirmation indicating the handle position.

hampshire schrieb:

This is not a construction defect but a lack of communication. The building company provided you with the ergonomically better solution without consulting you. Normally, you would not be bothered by this after a short time.

Yes, I initially hoped that too. It definitely makes sense ergonomically. (At least, that’s what I’m trying to convince myself.)
So far, however, I am bothered every time I’m in the house and see the windows.

What does the offer say about the handles and fittings?