At our California construction defect law firm, we take pride in our communication with our clients and prospective clients. We enjoy sharing information that is helpful to people in understanding what a construction defect is, when and how they can file a construction defect claim, who pays for the litigation, and much more.
Below, we have listed some popular questions and answers to construction defects in California.
Q: What is a construction defect?
A: Generally, a construction defect is a deficiency in the design or construction of a building or structure. The cause of the condition can be the result of faulty design, materials, and/or workmanship.
Some examples of construction defects may include: significant cracks in the slab and/or foundation; unevenness in floor slabs caused by abnormal soils movement; leaky roofs, windows, or doors; moisture problems due to improper drainage and/or waterproofing; faulty or corroded plumbing; doors and windows that bind and are difficult to open and close; and cabinets or counter tops that are separated from walls or ceilings.
Q: How long do I have to file a construction defect lawsuit in California?
Deadlines to bring construction defect claims are determined by statutes of limitation. In California, homes that have a substantial completion date or close of escrow date after January 1, 2003 are governed by Civil Code Section 895, et seq. (“SB800”). This statute contains one-, two-, four-, five-, and 10-year statutes of limitations. The following time limits are applicable to homes built after January 1, 2003:
1 year
- Noise (from original occupancy of adjacent unit)
- Fit and finish warranty
- Irrigation and drainage
- Manufactured products
2 years
- Decay of untreated wood posts
- Landscaping systems
- Dryer ducts
4 years
- Electrical systems
- Cracks in exterior hardscape, pathways, driveways, landscape, sidewalls, sidewalks, patios
- Corrosion of steel fences
5 years
- Deterioration of building surfaces due to paint or stain
10 years
- If not specifically set forth in SB800, no action may be brought to recover under SB800 more than 10 years after substantial completion but not later than the date of recordation of a valid notice of completion.
Our California construction defect law firm can help you figure out if you have a construction defect and a case, whether you’re a homeowner or homeowners association. We will represent you in a construction defect litigation from start to finish. We are a San Diego-based law firm but also work with clients in Los Angeles, Orange County, Riverside, and San Bernardino
To contact us, call 844-492-7474 or visit our San Diego construction defect contact page.
To learn more about California construction defects and the process, click our construction defect litigation page.
