You move into your new home and everything couldn’t be more perfect. The countertops, cabinets, closets, and hardwood floors are everything you imagined and more. But what about a few weeks or a few months later? Some flaws are simply a result of normal wear and tear, but some are a result of construction defects.
What is a Construction Defect?
A construction defect is a significant flaw in your home that reduces its value. Some defects are obvious and can be spotted right away. These are called patent defects. Other defects, called latent, are more difficult to spot and are not apparent until years later. Examples of construction defects include:
- Mold Growth
- Structural Instability
- Faulty Drains
- Cracks in the Foundation
What Leads to Construction Defects?
Construction defects can be a result of many factors that are linked back to the carelessness of the different parties involved. Common problems that result in construction defects include:
- Inferior Materials
- Unsatisfactory Workmanship
- Defective Materials
- Poor Structural / Civil Engineering
However, sometimes these defects result from unintentional mistakes during the building process. Some builders or developers mean no harm to the homeowners and would rather rectify the situation instead of undergoing lengthy trials. Because of this, most states require homeowners to contact the responsible party (usually the contractor or developer) to inform them of the issue before initiating a lawsuit. In some instances, the issue is addressed swiftly. In other cases, a lawsuit becomes the next step.
What Can Be Recovered from a Lawsuit?
When a lawsuit becomes necessary, then an experienced construction defect lawyer should be contacted. A successful verdict is crucial because it can help you recover many of the fees that resulted from the defect. This can include:
- Repair Costs
- Decline in Home Value
- Temporary Housing (if applicable)
- Court Costs
In some cases, lawyer fees may also be reimbursed. If the home requires immediate repairs to prevent it from sustaining further damage while the verdict is still pending, the funds used to facilitate those repairs can also be recovered.
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