The process of preparing for a complicated building project may be more intense than the construction itself. With countless unknowns, it is difficult to assess your risk and prepare for every contingency. Your contractors have the responsibility of ensuring they meet their obligations with as little negative impact as possible.
Unfortunately, many contractors you deal with may be facing a shortage of skilled and trained workers. This alone may increase the likelihood of defective workmanship. However, it is not the only factor for which you have to prepare.
Common construction defects
As California draws closer to the deadline for net-zero energy conservation, contractors should be applying more rigid standards to installing insulation. The newer high-efficiency exterior insulation requires more time and skill to install in conjunction with interior batt insulation. If done incorrectly, the results include higher energy use and more expense for you.
One of the most common and damaging results of construction defects is water intrusion. Whether it is poorly constructed roofs, windows, doors, exteriors or foundation, any source that allows water to enter your structure can result in mold, warping and rot. Water intrusion can come from any of the following:
- Insufficient flashing
- Poorly installed building wrap
- Improperly completed architectural plan
- Inappropriate choice of materials
- Inadequately trained laborers
These are only a few of the issues that may lead you to consider construction defect litigation. It is important to note that water intrusion is only one result of defective construction. You certainly would not want to take the risk of a poorly executed construction plan resulting in tragedy when an unsound structure collapses or fails to hold up under common California conditions, such as heavy rains or earthquakes.
How do I protect myself from risk?
You can make sure all the entities involved in your project carry the appropriate insurance to protect against construction issues that may arise. But how do you know if the certificates your contractors hold truly provide coverage? And how do you know if the coverage is adequate for the risk involved?
Seeking the advice of an attorney with years of experience reviewing and evaluating the insurance requirements for your project may help you avoid many of the negative consequences possible in a major construction project. Many builders and property owners find it is better to take these steps as early as possible rather than discover in the midst of a challenge that the risk is not covered.