Lady Penelope – good questions. The two lots that decided not to go ahead with installing timber flooring did so mainly because they were concerned about future noise complaints and the fuss and bother that causes. Their applications were not rejected outright, rather the acoustic products ‘not recommended’.
One lot owner did not test a range of more expensive products and were reluctant to pay for a second acoustic test.
One apartment did not have a ‘suspended’ ceiling below, the other did – that affects acoustic quality as well.
Neither lot owner has indicated they wish to take their particular issues any further at this stage. However, I expect they may explore other products as time goes on and new products come to market.
I can say, that to date, OC has not been asked to do anything about the slabs – although one owner did ask another to ‘beef’ up her ceiling – which was declined.
I doubt it is the responsibility of OC to ensure ‘equality’ of the slabs but if it was that would make for interesting debate. As far as I understand, our scheme was built with the intention of carpet only.