An Eye for Detail: Unmasking Construction Defects in Refurbished and Flipped Californian Homes
While buying a renovated or flipped house in California presents an appealing opportunity, it’s crucial to proceed with caution. These properties often come with aesthetic appeal and convenience, but potential construction defects can pose significant challenges.
Why Consider Construction Defects?
Renovated houses, especially flipped ones, can be deceiving. A fresh coat of paint, new countertops, and shiny fixtures might give the impression of a well-maintained property, but they can sometimes mask shoddy work. It’s essential to look beyond the surface and evaluate the quality of the renovations. Flippers may focus on cosmetic fixes while ignoring structural issues. Look for signs of foundational damage, such as uneven floors, cracks in walls, and doors that don’t close properly. Let’s explore this a bit further.
Top Things to Look Out For In Newly Renovated Houses
Active Mold: Some renovators may try to hide mold problems by painting over them.
Sewer Lines: Ensure the sewer lines are in good condition and properly connected.
Roof Condition: Check for leaks, missing shingles, or other roofing issues.
Framing Structure: The structural integrity of the house is crucial. Look for signs of damage or poor construction.
Painting Quality: Overlooked or poorly done painting can be a sign of rushed or substandard renovation work.
Unpermitted Additions or New Construction: Any new construction or additions should have the necessary permits. Unpermitted work can lead to legal issues and additional costs.
Leaks Through Windows or Building Walls: Incorrect installation can lead to leaks, which are a common cause of construction defect litigation.
Underlying Issues Hidden by New Drywall, Carpet, and Paint: Flipped houses might look new on the surface, but there could be hidden issues underneath.
Poor Quality Renovations: The quality of renovations can vary widely. Be wary of superficial fixes that don’t address deeper problems.
Missed Deadlines and Spoiled Evidence: If there are legal claims against builders, common barriers include spoiled evidence and missed deadlines.
In short, while buying a renovated or flipped house in California has its benefits, it’s vital to look beyond the surface. Be aware of potential construction defects and know your rights if you encounter one.
If You’ve Identified A Potential Construction Defect In Your Home, It’s Essential To Act Quickly
Under California law, homeowners typically have up to ten years to file a claim for construction defects, but this can vary based on the specific issue. For instance, 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. This statute contains one-, two-, four-, five-, and ten-year statutes of limitations.
Overall, who is liable is dependent on the facts, the developer, the general contractor, design professionals and engineers, relevant subcontractors, and material suppliers. It’s advisable to consult with a law firm like Naumann Law who is experienced in construction defect litigation and understands what your rights are and options.
Are You Experiencing Construction Defects Within Your Property?
If the responsible party is unresponsive or unwilling to address the defect, give our construction defect law firm a call to discuss your options. Our team of construction defect law experts can help you navigate the legal system and fight for your rights. As a homeowner or HOA seeking representation in construction defect litigation, we understand how frustrating it can be to deal with a construction defect, and we’re here to help ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Keep in mind that time is of the essence. Don’t let a construction defect compromise the value and safety of your property – take swift action to protect your investment.
Give Us A Call (844-492-7474) or Chat With Us Online. You can always drop us an email via our Contact Us Page.
We have more than 35 years of experience handling and winning construction defect cases. We work with clients not only in San Diego but also in Los Angeles, Orange County, Riverside, San Bernardino and many other cities throughout the greater California area.