Facing a lawsuit over construction defects can cost you and your company valuable time and money. Whether you are a general contractor or inspector, you want to take extra precautions to ensure that buildings and fixtures are safe for use to avoid litigation.
Here are four types of construction defects and simple steps you can take to prevent them from occurring.
What Are Construction Defects?
It is helpful to be aware of the common types of structural flaws. They include:
- Design – Structural design deficiencies can result in issues with drainage, support and even water penetration. In fact, water intrusions account for 65 percent of reported construction defects.
- Material – Buildings are often only as strong as what they are made of. Materials that are not made to last can result in deterioration such as window leaks.
- Craftsmanship – Sometimes construction flaws are a result of the quality of work performed. Poor workmanship, such as improper plumbing, can cause major issues down the line and attract toxic mold.
- Maintenance and operation – Even sound buildings and structures that are poorly maintained can quickly become hazardous, especially when they are no longer in compliance with state regulations.
Tips To Avoid Defective Constructions
Developers, property owners, inspectors, designers and contractors can all take measures to thwart defects before they arise such as:
- Recording and documenting every aspect of the construction process
- Staying up-to-date on laws and codes
- Complying with construction documents and installation instructions
Fortunately, litigation does not mean the end of your livelihood. By working closely with insurance companies and a qualified attorney, you can be proactive to avoid economic loss and litigation.