A COUPLE came home to find their front door and French windows missing after a row with the company fitting their double glazing.

Darren Burnham and Caroline McCourt, who live in Springwell Close, Langley Park, near Durham City, were having new windows and doors fitted by Chester-le-Street firm The Window Factory.

But on Monday, Mr Burnham said he was unhappy with the quality of the work and refused to let the workers in the house.

He said: "I told them not to do any more until I had got trading standards in.

"Later that morning, I got a phone call at work from my dad. One of the neighbours had been in touch with him to say the company had taken away the front door and French windows at the back. I couldn't believe it."

Company owner Keith McDonald admitted he had taken the door and the French windows but claimed he was justified.

He said: "Ninety per cent of the work had been done and we were due back on Monday, but they wouldn't allow us on site.

"I had various materials and tools there, and they wouldn't allow me access.

"The contract is signed, and until he pays me the doors legally belong to me."

The couple had paid a deposit of £1,400 towards the total cost of £3,400.

Mr McDonald said he was prepared to finish the job for only £1,000, but the couple have put the matter in the hands of their solicitor.

Miss McCourt blamed the firm for cracks which have appeared in the kitchen ceiling.

"It's an absolute mess," she said.

"We've been to see trading standards and everything is now going through our solicitor."

The couple have had to refit their old front door and board up the back of the house.

A spokeswoman for Durham Police said: "The incident was reported on Monday morning by a neighbour.

"The property was left unsecured and an officer was sent down.

"He advised Mr Burnham it was a civil matter and he was happy with that.