Types of Construction Defects

Improperly designed materials, poor craftsmanship, and a failure to follow construction codes are all examples of construction flaws. A construction defect can be defined as any flaw in a building project, including:

Design flaws in architecture
There was no planning or supervision.
Failure to conduct a thorough inspection
Construction flaws
When a building is not built in a reasonably workmanlike manner, or when the structure fails to perform as the buyer planned, defects in property construction occur.

Table of Contents

Typical Construction Errors

The following are some of the most prevalent and costly construction flaws:

Concrete, masonry and division, carpentry, and unstable foundations are all examples of structural integrity.
Mechanical issues
Problems with electricity
Invasion of water (which can result in property damage and toxic mold exposure)
Protection against heat and moisture
Seals for doors, windows, and glass
Defects in the finishing process

Construction Defects are classified into several categories.

Construction flaws are generally classified into one of four categories by courts:

Flaws in the design
Defects in the materials
Defects in the construction
Defects in the subsurface

Deficiencies in Design

Architects and engineers are examples of design professionals. These experts plan and design structures and systems. Even professionals, however, may not always follow instructions, which can result in a problem. Building outside of the stipulated building codes is a common source of design flaws. Improperly constructed roofs are an example of a design flaw that can lead to water infiltration, poor drainage, and insufficient structural support.

Deficiencies in Materials

Using inferior building materials can lead to serious issues, such as leaking windows or concrete that breaks under pressure. Even when correctly placed, inferior products can fail to perform and function adequately.

Deteriorating flashing, non-compliant building paper or waterproofing membranes, inferior asphalt roofing shingles, and the use of inferior drywall not allowed for use in wet or damp places, such as bathrooms and laundry rooms, are all examples of common manufacturer issues with construction materials.

Deficiencies in Construction

Multiple flaws might occur from poor craftsmanship. Many building flaws are not up to code or are covered up by a contractor on purpose. Water penetration via any section of the building structure, such as around windows, doors, or roof openings, is a common example. Mold can grow in any situation where there is a source of water. Cracks in foundations, dry rot in lumber, electrical and mechanical issues, and plumbing leaks are all examples of other structural flaws.

Deficiencies in the Subsurface

Many sections of the country, notably Colorado and California, have expansive soil conditions. Some houses are built on slopes, changing soil, or other situations where laying a secure foundation is challenging. Cracked foundations and other structural damage can come from a lack of a solid foundation.

If the subsurface conditions are not correctly compacted and prepared for optimal drainage, the property may suffer from issues such as poor ground settlement (subsidence), structural movement or shifting, and flooding.

Do you have any questions about the many types of construction flaws? Consult a Lawyer

Construction flaws can lead to major financial troubles as well as property harm. Defects in construction might sometimes go overlooked for a long time. Construction fault issues can become more difficult to resolve if the problem is not discovered right once. As a result, speaking with a local housing and construction defect attorney to see how they may assist you with a successful building defect claim is a good option.

Craig Cherney is a trusted client advisor and a sought after real estate lawyer and expert witness who is hired by the nation’s top Real Estate Litigation Attorneys to help resolve their litigated real property matters. Craig has appeared as a testifying expert witness before judges and juries in California, Arizona, Nevada and other jurisdictions across the country. Craig Cherney, Esq. Expert Witness Real Estate. 480-399-2342. If you are litigating an easement case, Craig Cherney might be able to help you advance and win your case.