Construction projects rarely go exactly as planned due to a myriad of moving parts and whether there is a schedule delay, issues with workmanship, a latent construction defect, or a host of other issues, you simply don’t know what you don’t know, and oftentimes you won’t know until it’s too late.
You should always try to work out problems with your construction manager directly, however, if it gets to the point where you feel as though your concerns are falling on deaf ears or the project has stalled, then it’s time to take action. Here are four signs you may need a construction defect attorney to help.
The Contractor Doesn’t Want to Talk to You
If you identify an issue at any stage of the process, your contractor should be willing to meet with you at the job site face-to-face, address and solve the issue and move forward.
Unfortunately, contractors will often treat the issue as unimportant and make excuses, leaving you more frustrated, escalating the issue. If they choose not to speak to you about the issue, you may need an attorney on standby.
A Construction Defect is Not Being Addressed
Sometimes contractors say they will address a defect however day after day never do.
Not only could this lead to even longer delays in completing the project, but it could cause other problems in the construction process.
When a contractor does not prioritize properly addressing a defect, they might be hoping you just don’t notice. Be sure to stay on top of them and reach out to an attorney if you believe they are ignoring the issue.
You Don’t Receive Regular, Updated Timelines on Your Project
Delays are often inevitable with construction projects. Even if the delay is out of the contractor’s control, they should be able to provide you with a valid reason and a written update. Scheduling software available today makes this very simple and there is never a reason that your contractor cannot provide you with regular updates.
Having an attorney analyze the contract and proposed schedule may be necessary.
Tradesmen Consistently Show Up Late or Don’t Show Up at All
Regularly monitor the progress of your project. Take note of when tradesmen arrive, how much they work, how long their breaks are, what they accomplished and when they leave for the day. Then if delays occur, you have the documentation should the project manager blames the delay on other factors.
The goal is not to create confrontation but to provide an attorney with facts and information if you need to pursue legal action. Of course, construction managers will naturally cover themselves, but if you have solid documentation, then you’ll have a stronger case to support your claims.
If you search for a “construction defect attorney near me,” you may have multiple results. One thing any construction defect attorney must have is a qualified expert witness.
That’s where Gryphon Consulting enters the picture. With our many years of experience, having completed hundreds of construction projects, I can identify unexcused delays and installation defects. Attorneys rely on our services as expert witnesses frequently, and we provide them with an unbiased analysis of the issues. So if you’re dealing with construction delays or defects, contact us to learn how we can help.