Construction defects can cause significant litigation, and contractors need to be aware of the risks. Not only can it delay the project or delay payment, but the property owner may claim that they need to fix the defects at their own expense.
For example, a construction company could be contracted to build a private home. The first day that the new homeowner is in the building, there’s a rainstorm and the roof begins to leak. They could then file a construction defect claim, which could cost tens of thousands of dollars in repairs—and it may also delay other projects that the construction company was supposed to carry out.
In order to avoid issues like this, construction companies need to understand why defects occur. One of the main reasons is when workers are in a rush.
Prioritizing productivity
Rushing happens because many businesses have strict deadlines that need to be met, and employers are looking for productivity. Perhaps the roofers were told that they had to complete the job in the next 24 hours because they were needed on another job site. They knew that they really needed 48 hours to do it properly, but they cut corners and rushed through, just trying to get it done by the deadline.
This doesn’t mean that productivity and efficiency aren’t important. They are. But a business has to be able to balance them alongside quality and reliability. They should never exchange quality for productivity, as this could increase the odds of a serious construction defect.
As a company owner, you may fully understand the dangers of rushing and seek to avoid it at every turn. Unfortunately, although this can be highly beneficial, construction defect claims may still take place. When they do, it’s important that you understand what legal steps you can take to defend your company and your work.
