Construction defects can be a serious concern for everyone involved in a construction project. As a result, it is helpful for construction companies and property owners alike to be familiar with what they are, what they can do about them and the legal resources to help.
There is a lot going during any construction project, and a lot involved in the process. This can create the opportunity for things to go wrong. Construction defects can include deficiencies in the design, planning, supervision, construction, construction observation or inspection phases of the construction of a new building which can include a home or building intended for commercial use. Specific types of construction defects can relate to the structural integrity of the building; water intrusion or soil expansion; thermal and moisture protection; mechanical and electrical components of the building; doors, windows and glass; the building finishes.
If the structure fails to perform in a manner reasonably intended by the buyer, or is not constructed in a reasonably workmanlike manner, there may be liability for any construction defects that arise. Construction defects, including design defects, subsurface defects, materials defects and construction defects, can all impact the value of the property as well as the ability of the property owner to use the property as intended. Construction defects can also be a challenge for builders and contractors to contend with during complex construction projects.
There are legal protections available to both property owners and builders when construction defects arise to help with the monetary costs of their losses or with repairs, among other types of possible relief. Construction law can quickly become complex so it is valuable for parties impacted by construction defects to be familiar with their options when facing construction defects.