A construction defect is a condition that reduces the value of a residential or commercial building. Defects which are obvious are referred to as patent defects, and water seepage, a leaking roof, poor security, insufficient lighting and inadequate sound control are some examples of typical patent defects that readily become apparent and can be repaired during construction. However, not all defects are immediately observable. Defects which become apparent years after the construction of a building are referred to as latent defects. Defective plumbing and electrical systems, dry rot, termites, harmful mold and bacteria, structural failure and collapse are some examples of defects that may be detected at a later time and therefore considered latent defects.

Proving liability in plaintiff actions against construction companies or defending construction companies and contractors against construction defect allegations requires the testimony of experts who specialize in identifying and evaluating defects and damages. Heckman & O’Connor has the available resources and teams of experts at our disposal in order to provide effective representation.

Many factors must be taken into consideration during building construction:

• Soil and slope instability problems, such as landslides, rock falls and flooding
• Design errors regarding flooring, ventilation, plumbing, roofs, septic and heating systems
• Poor workmanship as a result of inexperienced, unqualified or unsupervised construction labor
• Failing building materials either because of manufacturing errors or material component interaction with the environment.

Heckman & O’Connor represents clients as plaintiffs and defendants in construction defect lawsuits. Among our clients are homeowners and condominium associations as well as developers and construction companies. Our law firm has gained knowledge and experience from various legal perspectives, and throughout the years has assisted numerous clients in protecting their rights against invalid claims or in receiving compensation for construction defects, as the case may be. The firm also represents insurance companies in subrogation claims for construction defects and provides insurance defense in real estate related claims brought against insurance companies for damages.

For legal assistance regarding construction defects, please contact our firm via email or phone our office at 970-926-5991 to arrange a consultation.