Good to see another Aussie here (even if you have defected to the mother country lol )  Best of luck with everything, there are some excellent resources available on here 

Buyers should review the title commitment/binder before closing to determine which of the restrictions/defects will survive the closing.

You could try to submit a ticket to the warranty department, but it would be highly unlikely that they would do anything unless it can be shown as a manufacturer defect or similar. 

One of the earliest findings of dioxin's toxicity in animals was that it caused birth defects in mice at very low levels.

Who  does the owner go to when there is a defect?

I have read about some people going with bare finishes (painting without texturing...I'm guessing with all defects removed first). 

Honestly though, it's your duty to replace the defective unit, and your plan to do so was fine.

If the meters are defective you need to persuade the City to replace them ASAP.  

Well said everyone.According to California Civil Code 1942, a tenant can, without your permission, have a defect repaired without your consent and deduct the rent under the following circumstances:The defect must be related to tenability.

If your county issues a deed it will be a quit claim deed which means the county takes no responsibility for the condition of the property or for defects in the title.