Defects: What to Look Out For
Looking Out for Construction Defects
Whether you are a first time home buyer or buying a commercial property it is important for you to be vigilant in looking out for construction defects in Los Angeles. They not only may cause you or a visitor to your property harm, but construction defects can also devalue your property.
There are many causes of construction defects especially since there are so many people and products involved in the building process. Some defects are very obvious and some don’t show up for years after the building has been completed.
There are some common kinds of construction defects you should be able to detect during a walk through of the building and they include:
- Mildew and mold
- Water collecting in certain locations
- Rotting wood
- Ceiling, wall and floor cracks
- Faulty electrical wiring
Causes Of Construction Defects
Some common causes of construction defects that might not be so easily detectable are due to:
- Site location
- Faulty materials
- Shoddy labor
- Poor engineering
- Poor land preparation
One way to prevent construction defects is to get recommendations and references of quality contractors before your project begins. You can also check with your local Better Business Bureau to see if any complaints against your potential contractor have been filed. Asking to see the architect’s design plans or past projects might afford you some peace of mind as well. After your project has already begun it is a good idea to make periodic unexpected visits to the site and check the status of your project. Walk around and look at all aspects of the building process and ask questions. You have a right to know the details of your project for not only your safety but that of those visiting your building as well.
This article is a courtesy of the Los Angeles construction law firm of Hamrick & Evans, 818-763-5292, www.hamricklawfirm.com.
