A Brief Overview on Construction Defects

Defective conditions can result from faulty designs, work materials, and workmanship. Construction defects include the failure of the home or building to be built in a realistically workmanlike manner or to perform in a manner that was reasonably intended by the purchaser. The business attorneys at Knez Law Group, LLP have been handling construction law litigation, defects in workmanship and poorly designed homes, buildings and commercial properties for 30+ years. We have handled construction defect claims, and defense of claims throughout California and can answer your questions quickly. Call (951) 742-7681 to discuss your matter now.

Common forms of defective construction could involve the following:

• Significant cracks in the home’s foundation
• Disproportion in floor slabs formed by abnormal dirt movement
• Leaky windows or roofs
• Issues with moisture or other problems that occur because of improper waterproofing or drainage
• Defective plumbing
• Defective framing
• Slanting walls and floors
• Windows or doors that bend and are difficult to close
• Cabinets that are detached from the wall and/or ceiling 

For a more exhaustive list, California states all actionable defects under Civil Code Section 896.

Remedies to Construction Defects

There are many construction companies and builders who will include a pre-litigation condition as part of a contract as a form of precondition to the filing of a claim by the property owner. These prerequisites could be required prior to filing a lawsuit and should be reviewed carefully. Once the property owner files a lawsuit, the following remedies could be available:

• Reasonable expenses of restoration for the construction defect, or any reduction in the fair market value of the premises
• The cost of the repair for the property damage, which occurred as a result of the construction defect
• Any relocation expenses required as a result of the repair
• Storage costs that are accrued because of the ongoing repair
• Any expenses made for the hiring of outside experts that investigate the defects that affect the property
• Any other expenses or fees recoverable by statute and/or contract 

Construction Defect Cause of Action

When a construction defect occurs, there are multiple methods to bring legal action against the builder. Causes of action for a construction defect most commonly available against the construction company or builder include the following:

• Negligence
• Strict liability
• Breach of an expressed warranty
• Breach of an implied warranty 

Other cause of action could be applicable but it depends on the facts of every case. Every case is unique and will require legal analysis in order to determine the extent of the property owner’s rights. 

After a Construction Defect, Seek Proficient Legal Support

If a builder or construction company you hired committed a construction defect on your property, you may have the right to file a civil lawsuit against said builder or company. Consider seeking the legal support of an experienced attorney who can help you through the claim process and help you determine the amount of damages you are owed.

 Under California law, you have a limited amount of time to file a claim for a construction defect. It is important to act quickly and seek the skills of an experienced attorney as soon as possible.

Knez Law Group is a law firm in Riverside, CA that has been representing both property owners and construction companies for many years and are experienced in Construction Law, including construction defect litigation. Knez Law Group is committed to representing property owners who have accrued damages because of a construction defect. The firm has many years of experience in handling construction defect cases in the State of California and is prepared to vigorously defend your rights in a court of law.

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Knez Law Group, LLP