What are construction defects?

Construction defects refer to flaws that can arise in various aspects of building projects, specifically in design, workmanship, or materials used. These flaws can compromise the overall quality, safety, longevity, and performance of a structure. Understanding this definition is crucial for contractors, as it encompasses a broad spectrum of potential issues that might affect residential buildings.

When defects occur in design, for instance, it may involve plans that do not align with building codes or fail to meet the functional needs of the occupants. When examining workmanship, this can refer to improper installation of structural components, like framing or roofing, which can lead to serious problems over time, including leaks and structural failure. Lastly, using substandard or inappropriate materials can lead to long-term durability issues, again jeopardizing the integrity of the entire structure.

In contrast, unapproved changes during construction may or may not lead to defects but primarily pertain to deviations from the established plans and specifications, which may not necessarily result in physical flaws. Minor errors that do not affect building safety usually do not qualify as defects since they do not have a significant impact on the functionality or safety of the construction. Lastly, issues related only to construction permits are regulatory matters rather than defects related to the quality or integrity of the building itself.