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A Homeowner’s Guide to Construction Defect Laws

A home is one of the most valuable financial investments you will make during your lifetime. More than just bricks and drywall, a home is where you live, rest and build a family. Unfortunately, the dream of owning a home can turn into a nightmare if costly construction defects lessen its value. In worst-case scenarios, a defect can be serious enough to cause a family to abandon their home altogether.

Construction Defects

The construction industry is competitive and many companies respond by accepting the lowest bids for contracts. This often results in corners being cut, the frequent employment of unqualified workers and poorly supervised subcontractors. The combination of these and other factors result in defective homes with unsuspecting homeowners left to foot the bill.

Common Issues

Construction defect laws are enforced to both protect homeowners and cover issues such as faulty designs, code violations, unsafe structures and cracked foundations. Some of the most common construction defects include:

  • Foundation problems (basement flooding)
  • Improper electrical wiring
  • Weatherproofing failures
  • Improper shingling, leaking roofs
  • Insufficient insulation

Responsibility and Liability

Construction projects typically involve multiple parties who are all contractually obligated to design and build safe and defect-free structures. Said parties can include:

  • Designers
  • Architects
  • Engineers
  • General contractors/subcontractors
  • Product manufacturers
  • Builders
  • Developers

Anyone involved in the construction process deemed responsible for a defect could be held liable for costs associated with said defect. Damages typically include:

  • Repair costs
  • The loss of property use
  • Temporary housing costs
  • Any personal injuries caused by the defect

Punitive damages can also be recovered if the negligent party’s actions are deemed reckless.

Protect Your Rights

Your home is a huge investment and in order to protect it during a defect dispute, a construction defect law advocate can be of great assistance. Construction defect disputes can be complex as they typically involve several defendants and insurance companies.

The attorneys of Millin & Millin have the resources necessary to achieve favorable outcomes for their clients. If you believe the damages to your home are the result of a construction defect, it is important to consult with our trusted construction defect attorneys so you won’t miss out on your right to recover damages from the responsible party.