Most property owner-contractor relationships run smoothly. Even so, problems may arise due to delays, by the failure of suppliers to deliver materials, or by disputes between a contractor and his or her subcontractors. What starts as a simple dispute between an owner and a contractor can quickly escalate into a multi-party battle, involving the property owner, the contractor, subcontractors, material suppliers, and others. If the dispute cannot be resolved amicably, you will need expert legal advice to see you through the dispute. There is much at stake.
Experienced Representation in Construction Law Matters
Construction projects are complicated with a great deal of money at stake. Do not put your construction law case in the hands of an inexperienced lawyer that does not fully understand the unique market pressures and legal concerns involved in any case in Las Vegas.
Whether you are filing a mechanic's lien or dealing with foreclosure, the Nevada construction law attorneys at John Peter Lee, Ltd., can provide the experienced and dedicated representation you need. Contact us today to schedule a free initial consultation.
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The Las Vegas law firm of John Peter Lee, Ltd., helps individuals, construction companies and homeowners associations with the day-to-day legal problems they face. While arbitration is a common and preferred practice for resolving disputes in a timely and cost-effective manner, we will not hesitate to litigate on your behalf.
The longer you wait for legal representation to handle a construction project, the more your costs can increase. Do not try to solve the problem on your own through informal negotiations. Let us represent you in arbitration or courtroom litigation arising out of any construction law dispute.
Construction Defects
The construction industry has experienced record growth in recent years. New construction sprang up in virtually every part of the country. Home construction, in particular, saw rapid growth: in 2004, construction of single-family homes nationwide hit an all-time high (for the third year in a row) of 1.714 million units. The rapid growth in construction was accompanied by a rapid growth in claims for construction defects, as homebuyers and other customers of the construction industry asserted complaints for faulty construction. An attorney with expertise in construction law, such as the attorneys at John Peter Lee, Ltd. in Las Vegas, Nevada, can advise you about the best way to handle your claim for construction defects.
Causes of Construction Defects
Very few buildings are completed to absolute perfection, but not every variance in quality will be considered a defect by a court. The defects that are most often pursued are those that reduce the value of a building or that interfere with its use. Some common types of defect include:
- Dry rot,
- Water seepage,
- Faulty drainage,
- Insect infestation,
- Improper materials,
- Settlement or movement,
- Structural failure,
- Defective plumbing,
- Faulty wiring, and
- Environmental hazards.
Many factors have been suggested as the cause in the rise in claims for defective construction. Some experts blame the recent housing and real estate boom, saying the rapid pace of building strained production. It does appear that demand sometimes outstripped the supply of qualified laborers and quality materials. Demands for energy efficiency and environmentally sound products also make buildings more complicated to build today. Furthermore, contractors and construction companies, like most business people, face increasing pressure to reduce their costs, and speed up production.
While no one factor is the sole reason for the rise in claims for construction defects, the fact remains that defective construction can result in a serious loss to the home or building owner. An experienced construction law attorney from John Peter Lee, Ltd. can pursue your claim and help recoup the loss caused by defective construction.
Environmental Hazards
Some construction defects do more than affect the value of a building. Some defects can cause serious health problems for people who use or live in a building. Environmental hazards can be caused by either faulty materials or negligent construction. Faulty materials, especially those not intended for use in residential construction, may emit hazardous substances.
Faulty construction, usually in the form of improper ventilation or water seepage, can also cause environmental hazards. A common type of environmental hazard is mold. Hazardous species and concentrations of mold can grow in areas that are not properly ventilated and that are exposed to moisture, either through seepage or leakage. The mold will discolor and damage porous surfaces. More importantly, mold is also a potent allergen, causing allergic reactions and health problems in many people. Young children are especially vulnerable to health problems caused by mold spores, including asthma, which has been linked to mold proliferation.
Conclusion
Construction defects deprive you of the full use of your property. Defective construction is also unfair to the customer, as you have paid for quality construction that you did not receive. If you have a claim for construction defects, you need knowledgeable legal counsel. The experienced construction law attorneys at John Peter Lee, Ltd. can give you the counsel you need to make your claim.
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