As the owner of a construction business, the quality of your work is crucial for your continued success. That is why you must do your best to avoid construction defects as much as possible, as a single defect can derail an entire project.
Construction defects like the following can also tarnish your reputation, which may prevent you from securing new projects. Fortunately, understanding the different types of issues that may occur is the first step to avoiding them.
Material defects
These deficiencies result from shoddy materials used to construct buildings and homes. For instance, damaged window frames may create gaps after installation, which can allow water to pour into the building during rainstorms. Other items, such as structural supports, may give out well before their time, which can lead to instability within a building.
Design defects
Defects related to design result during the planning stages of a new structure. In this case, problems may result from the engineers responsible for developing the building design. Poor drainage is a problem that plagues many buildings, both commercial and residential. In this case, poorly planned drainage can result in water flowing toward a structure instead of away from it.
Construction defects
Defects can also result from the construction process itself. If workers do not install systems correctly, it can lead to a whole host of issues. Improperly installed electrical wiring greatly increases a building’s risk of fire, while problems installing a plumbing system can lead to water leaks, mold growth, and extensive wood rot.
Proper documentation is key to defending your business against any allegations of defects. When you can show your exact construction process, you can prove you and your team completed tasks with quality in mind.