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South Carolina Defective Workmanship Claims

Workmanship defects are any pieces or work that are not completed according to the contract. These defects can range from minor flaws to significant deficiencies that can cause the project to be unsafe or not function properly. Some of the most common workmanship defects include:

  • Incomplete work: This is when work needs to be completed under the contract or plans. This can consist of work that still needs to be finished or work that is only partially completed.
  • Incorrect work: This is when work is completed incorrectly, resulting in deficiencies or flaws. This can include work that does not meet the contract specifications, plans or work that needs to be up to code.
  • Poor workmanship: This is when work is completed with poor craftsmanship, resulting in a substandard product. This can include sloppy work, using inferior materials, or poor construction.

Workmanship defects can cause severe problems for a construction project, so it is vital to identify and correct them as soon as possible. If you suspect workmanship defects in your project, you should contact a qualified construction professional to assess the situation and make the necessary repairs.

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Types of Workmanship Defects South Carolina Law Covers

Defective or faulty workmanship generally refers to material or design defects or poor workmanship that makes a structure unsafe or unusable for its intended purpose. These defects can cause extensive damage to a property, often permanently. They can also create dangerous conditions for occupants, increasing the risk of illness and injury.

Defective workmanship is different from the usual wear and tear that a structure experiences over time. For example, windows that develop small drafts. These drafts gradually become larger, requiring more energy for heating and cooling. If left undetected, this can also lead to water leaking into the home. Therefore, new windows that are drafty or leak water are indicative of defective workmanship.

What Causes Workmanship Defects?

One of the most common causes of workmanship defects is poor quality control. This can happen at any stage of the manufacturing process, from the selection of materials to the final assembly. Poor quality control can result in a wide range of problems, from products that are not up to standard to outright dangerous products.

Another common cause of workmanship defects is incorrect installation. This is often the case with complex products requiring specialized installation skills and knowledge. If the product is not installed correctly, it can result in many problems, from poor performance to complete failure.

Whatever the cause of workmanship defects, they can seriously impact the quality of the product. In some cases, they can even be dangerous. Therefore, it is crucial to identify and rectify workmanship defects as soon as possible to ensure the safety and quality of the product.

Who is Responsible for Workmanship Defects?

Typically, the party responsible for workmanship defects is the party who performed the work. This could be the contractor, subcontractor, or even the former homeowner if they completed the work themselves.

If a professional contractor performs the work, they will usually be responsible for any defects. However, the responsibility may be more challenging to determine if a subcontractor or the homeowner performed the work. In these cases, it is often best to consult with an experienced Charleston construction law attorney to determine who is responsible for the defects.

What to Do if You Discover Workmanship Defects in Your Home

If you discover workmanship defects in your new home, the first step is to notify your builder in writing. Include a description of the defects, photos if possible, and your desired resolution. Once your builder is aware of the issue, they will have a chance to inspect the problem and determine how to fix it. Unfortunately, you may have to pursue legal action if they cannot fix the defects to your satisfaction.

Allen Law Will Help with Workmanship Defect Claims

If you have a Charleston workmanship defect claim, hiring a lawyer to represent you is crucial. Workmanship defects can be difficult to prove, and you will need an experienced lawyer to navigate the legal process. Your lawyer will also be able to negotiate with the other party's insurance company on your behalf to get the best possible outcome for your claim. Schedule a consultation today with Allen Law today by calling (843) 882-5005.