5 common construction defects in new homes

You wanted everything just right for your newly built home. A great location, enough privacy and a spacious, secure and well-constructed house. Well, two out of three are not bad. Actually, in this situation, two out of three are unacceptable.

Unfortunately, you discovered that your home has some major construction defects. Not only may defects lead to l safety issues to the structure, but also a significant monetary loss.

Roofs, doors, foundations and electrical systems

Construction defects may surface during the building of the home, or well afterward, too. And they must be promptly addressed. Perhaps the location was not so good as the home was built on eroding soil. In some scenarios, an incomplete design may lead to defects. Or maybe the contractor relied on low-quality building materials and had the work performed by an inexperienced work crew.

Here is a list of some common construction defects:

• Poorly built roof: Design problems may be at the root of this problem. As a result, water leakage and mold are possible. Be on the lookout for nail pops and damaged shingles.
• Improperly installed windows and doors: In some cases, poor building materials may be the cause. Moisture may get through cracks near windows and doors. Water leaks, stains and mold may surface.
• An eroding foundation: Grading and drainage are essential. In some cases, water seeps into the foundation, leading to water damage and cracks in the foundation.
• Improperly applied siding: Siding should protect the house, but improper installation will cause problems. Stucco may begin to flake. Wood siding may crack. Sometimes, water damage is possible.
• Poor mechanical (HVAC), electrical and plumbing systems: Look for corrosion and mechanical breakdowns in HVAC units. Electrical problems may lead to dead electrical outlets, tripped circuit breakers and melting wire insulation. Poor plumbing may lead to leakage, water damage and burst pipes.

These are just some of the construction defects that can happen with new homes.

Pursue legal action

You did not expect problems to surface in your new home, which you and your family had hoped to live in for a long time. Now, there is the possibility that you need to leave due to safety concerns. A negligent home builder likely caused the problems, and you have every right to pursue legal action.