As a developer, you take pride in your work. You make it possible for people to live their daily lives in well-designed buildings. Unfortunately, sometimes you may face allegations of a construction defect.
Common construction complaints come about because of problems in the following areas:
- Structural integrity
- Electrical
- Mechanical
- Windows and doors
- Finishes
- Moisture and thermal protection
- Water intrusion
If someone is accusing you of being responsible for a defect, you probably have a lot of questions and concerns. First and foremost, it is important to know the different categories of construction deficiencies.
1. Construction defects
This type of issue stems from poor workmanship. One example is an improper plumbing system that results in leaks and growth of toxic mold. Another circumstance may be a wall that is cracking due to inadequate handiwork.
2. Material defects
Constructing a building with inferior materials may result in serious issues with the following:
- Building paper
- Flashing
- Roofing shingles
- Waterproofing membranes
- Drywall
- Particle boards
Usually, the liable party for deficient materials is the manufacturer.
3. Design defects
Engineers and architects may fail to design a proper system or building. Many design defects occur when these professionals build something outside of the right code. For example, a poorly designed roof may cause inadequate structural support or water penetration.
4. Maintenance and operational defects
Building and structure owners are responsible for maintenance. Without proper maintenance, a building may suffer from a variety of issues, such as an exterior sealant breaking down or freezing pipes in an HVAC system.
5. Subsurface defects
If a building is on a hill or area of land without good soil, it may not have a stable foundation. Structures need to have prepared and compacted subsurface conditions to have a solid foundation. Without a good foundation, the building may be prone to shifting, flooding or landslides.
Construction defects are serious issues, but not all claims are legitimate. If you are facing false accusations or believe you are not responsible for construction problems, you may need to defend yourself legally.
