Defect claims
A defect claim starts with a good record
Cracked slabs, leaking roofs and failed framing are costly to prove and easy to lose by waiting. For owners and builders alike, the first steps are written ones.
Many states require a written notice of the defect and a chance to repair before a suit can be filed, and the time to sue runs from different events depending on the claim. We help owners document what's wrong and send the notice. We help builders and subcontractors answer one, inspect the work and settle what can be settled. When an expert is needed, we say so, and what one will cost, before we hire anyone.
Notices of defect and repair demands
Inspections and expert coordination
Settlement demands and mediation
Claims against builders, subcontractors and designers
Priced by stage
A flat fee for the first two stages, so you know what a claim costs before it becomes a case. Expert and filing fees are separate.
- Flat fee
Records review
We read the contract, plans, photos and any notices, and say whether there's a claim worth pursuing.
- Flat fee
Notice and demand
The written notice, the repair demand and the follow-up, for an owner or in answer for a builder.
- Estimate first
Mediation or suit
Priced hourly, with an estimate in writing before either one begins.
How a defect claim moves
The same four steps whichever side of the wall you're on.
- 01
Step 1: Document it
Dated photos, the plans, the contract and every message about the problem.
- 02
Step 2: Give or answer notice
In writing, in the form the contract and the law call for.
- 03
Step 3: Inspect and talk
A joint inspection, and a real chance to repair or settle.
- 04
Step 4: Mediate, arbitrate or file
Chosen by the contract and by what the claim is worth.
Questions about defects
Do I need an expert?
Often, for anything beyond a plain repair bill. We'll tell you at the records review, with a rough cost, so you can decide before you spend.
I'm the builder and I got a notice. What now?
Don't ignore it and don't argue by email. Send it to us with the contract. Many notices carry a short window to respond or to offer repairs.
Is a request for repairs the same as a defect claim?
Not always. A repair request follows the steps in the contract's repair terms, and a defect claim follows the contract and the law. We read both and tell you which fits.
Seeing damage you can't explain?
Send the contract and a few photos. We'll tell you what to document first.