{"id":369101,"date":"2017-03-21T12:31:27","date_gmt":"2017-03-21T17:31:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ability-fl-prod.internetbrands.com\/ability-law\/realestate\/construction-defects\/construction-defect-claims-overview.html"},"modified":"2026-09-16T15:56:04","modified_gmt":"2026-09-16T20:56:04","slug":"construction-defect-claims-overview","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/construction-defects\/construction-defect-claims-overview.html","title":{"rendered":"How To File a Construction Defect Claim"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 fl-sectionWithSidebar fl-container fl-flex fl-flex-wrap fl-gap30\">\n<div class=\"fl-page-articles fl-section-main fl-section-main-full-width\"><h1 class=\"fl-no-margin-top\">How To File a Construction Defect Claim<\/h1>\n\n<section class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline\">\n    <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-content\">\n                    By <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/robert-rafii-esq\/\">Robert Rafii, Esq.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by <a\n                href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/robert-rafii-esq\/\">Robert Rafii, Esq.<\/a>\n                | Last updated\n        <time>\n                            September 16, 2026\n                    <\/time>\n    <\/div>\n\n    \n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-legally-reviewed\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Legally Reviewed\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team.html\">FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/company-history\/editorial-policy.html\">our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n\n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-fast-checked\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Fact-Checked\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/contributing-authors.html\">contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/?fli=bylinelink\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<div class=\"fl-key-takeaways fl-mb30\" data-testid=\"fl-key-takeaways\">\n    <div class=\"fl-card-content\">\n        <div class=\"fl-card-body fl-card-bg-teal fl-flex fl-flex-column\">\n                            <h2 class=\"fl-card-title fl-h2 fl-no-margin\">Key Takeaways<\/h2>\n                        <div>\n<div id=\"DJ27UeiDW79dV1PRbotZ4-content-0\">\n<ul>\n<li>Construction defects can range from minor cosmetic issues to serious problems like foundation cracks or toxic mold.<\/li>\n<li>Homeowners may pursue legal claims such as breach of contract, warranty, negligence, or strict liability to recover repair costs or lost value.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"fl-rich-text\">\n<p>Discovering a construction defect in your home can be frustrating and costly. These problems \u2014 ranging from cosmetic flaws to serious structural issues \u2014 can reduce your property\u2019s value and require expensive repairs.<\/p>\n<p>Learning about construction defect claims helps you understand your legal options and how to protect your investment. Read on to learn more about construction defect claims and what to do if you discover a problem with your home. A <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/construction-law\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">real estate lawyer<\/a> can guide you through the legal process.<\/p>\n<h2>What Is a Construction Defect?<\/h2>\n<p>The term <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/construction-defects\/construction-defect-basics.html\">\u201cconstruction defect\u201d<\/a> refers to any sort of problem with your home. That includes both:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Minor cosmetic issues, like peeling paint<\/li>\n<li>Major defects, like electrical problems, a leaking roof, toxic mold, or foundation cracks<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Defects can be either <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/construction-defects\/construction-defect-faqs.html\">patent or latent<\/a>. <span data-term-id=\"60037292\">Patent defects<\/span> are discoverable by reasonable inspection. <span data-term-id=\"60037285\">Latent defects<\/span> can\u2019t be discovered by a reasonable inspection. For example, a <span data-term-id=\"60037285\">latent defect<\/span> can include a previously undiscovered foundation problem. The issue doesn\u2019t become apparent for years until settling causes the foundation to crack.<\/p>\n<p>There are many different <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/construction-defects\/types-of-construction-defects.html\">types of construction defects<\/a>, including:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Errors or omissions by the <span data-term-id=\"60037257\">architect<\/span> or <span data-term-id=\"60037295\">design professional<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-term-id=\"60037281\">Poor workmanship<\/span> during a new construction build<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/product-liability\/defects-in-manufacturing.html\">Manufacturing defects<\/a> in building materials (for example, leaky defective windows)<\/li>\n<li>Soil problems resulting in a lack of solid foundation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If you believe there may be a construction defect in your residential construction, act quickly. It\u2019s a good idea to hire an independent <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nachi.org\/certified-inspectors\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">home inspector<\/a> to assess the extent of the damage at the first sign of a defect.<\/p>\n<h2>Notify the Construction Company<\/h2>\n<p>Provide <span data-term-id=\"60037269\">written notice<\/span> of defects promptly. Ideally, the party <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/construction-defects\/legal-liability-for-construction-defects.html\">legally responsible<\/a> for the defect should be held accountable for remedying the situation. Contracts and state laws often require the <span data-term-id=\"60037259\">property owner<\/span> to give the contractor a chance to address the defect first.<\/p>\n<p>But <span data-term-id=\"60037274\">construction law<\/span> disputes can get complicated. The liable party might disagree that the defect exists or that it\u2019s their fault. Alternatively, they might fail to adequately fix the defect or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/litigation\/filing-a-lawsuit\/how-to-demand-payment-in-a-letter.html\">compensate the owner<\/a>. In these kinds of scenarios, <span data-term-id=\"60037259\">property owners<\/span> aren\u2019t able to get relief without taking further action.<\/p>\n<h2>Can I Sue for Construction Defects?<\/h2>\n<p>Depending on your circumstances, you may have legal options available to you. <span data-term-id=\"60037264\">Filing a lawsuit<\/span> is appropriate in some cases.<\/p>\n<p>It may be possible for you to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/litigation\/filing-a-lawsuit\/filing-a-lawsuit-should-you-sue.html\">bring a lawsuit<\/a> based on different legal theories and seek damages. You may file suit for damages, such as the cost of repairing the defect and a loss in the value of the home.<\/p>\n<h2>Gather Evidence of the Defect and Damages<\/h2>\n<p>Whether you <span data-term-id=\"60037264\">file a lawsuit<\/span> or resolve the issue outside of court, documenting the problem is a good idea. Evidence can help show the nature of the problem and the extent of <span data-term-id=\"60037266\">property damage<\/span>. You\u2019ll also want to keep records of what happens once the defect has become apparent.<\/p>\n<p>Sources of evidence in a claim can include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Photos and videos of the defect and <span data-term-id=\"60037266\">property damage<\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/buying-a-home\/home-inspections-before-you-buy.html\">Home <span data-term-id=\"60037279\">inspection reports<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li>Your communications with the <span data-term-id=\"60037276\">construction professional<\/span><\/li>\n<li>The contract or agreement<\/li>\n<li>Payment records, invoices, and repair quotes<\/li>\n<li>Medical bills and related losses if the defect caused a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/accident-injury-law.html\"><span data-term-id=\"60037272\">personal injury<\/span> or illness<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>An attorney can also help you prepare other types of evidence that might help in court. For example, <span data-term-id=\"60037256\">engineers<\/span> or <span data-term-id=\"60037257\">architects<\/span> may provide expert testimony about how the defect could have been avoided. In a lawsuit, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/litigation\/filing-a-lawsuit\/fact-finding-and-discovery.html\">discovery process<\/a> can also reveal information about the inner workings of the construction project.<\/p>\n<h2>Determine the Right Type of Claim To File<\/h2>\n<p>You must have a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/litigation\/filing-a-lawsuit\/can-i-sue.html\">valid cause of action<\/a> to sue someone. In a construction defect case, you\u2019ll need to show how the person or business you\u2019re suing has a legal responsibility to you.<\/p>\n<p>Several legal theories can form the foundation of a <span data-term-id=\"60037290\">construction defect lawsuit<\/span>. Sometimes, a contract or <span data-term-id=\"60037255\">warranty<\/span> created a specific obligation that the builder or manufacturer failed to follow. In other cases, the defendant\u2019s failure to meet <span data-term-id=\"60037273\">industry standards<\/span> or <span data-term-id=\"60037268\">building codes<\/span> caused the <span data-term-id=\"60037287\">defective construction<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>If you aren\u2019t sure what type of claim you have, consult with a lawyer. They can review your case and help you determine the next steps.<\/p>\n<h3><span data-term-id=\"60037263\">Breach of Contract<\/span> or <span data-term-id=\"60037255\">Warranty<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>You may want to consider carefully reviewing your contract for the construction of the home first. It may be possible for you to sue the builder under a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-contracts-forms\/breach-of-contract-and-lawsuits.html\"><span data-term-id=\"60037263\">breach of contract<\/span><\/a> claim. This applies if the home was not built to the specifications set out in your contract. Note that you must have been one of the parties to the contract in order to have standing to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/litigation\/filing-a-lawsuit\/can-i-sue-for-breach-of-contract.html\">sue for the breach of that contract<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Keep in mind that many states may recognize <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/consumer-transactions\/what-are-express-and-implied-warranties.html\"><span data-term-id=\"60037277\">implied <\/span><span data-term-id=\"60037255\">warranties<\/span><\/a> in construction agreements. For example, California law recognizes an implied promise of good faith in contracts.<\/p>\n<p>Also, review any <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/consumer-transactions\/what-are-express-and-implied-warranties.html\">express <span data-term-id=\"60037255\">warranties<\/span><\/a> given to you by the builder. Your builder may have guaranteed the quality of construction of your home for a specific period, such as six months or six years. If the construction defect arose during this time period, you may be able to sue for <span data-term-id=\"60037298\">breach of <\/span><span data-term-id=\"60037255\">warranty<\/span>.<\/p>\n<h3><span data-term-id=\"60037258\">Negligence<\/span> Claims and <span data-term-id=\"60037301\">Strict Liability<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/torts-and-personal-injuries.html\">tort law<\/a>, you may also be able to sue your builder for <span data-term-id=\"60037258\">negligence<\/span>. When constructing your home, the builder owed you a duty of care to construct the home carefully and produce a home free of defects. If the builder breached that duty and caused you damages, you may be able to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/accident-injury-law\/elements-of-a-negligence-case.html\">sue for <span data-term-id=\"60037258\">negligence<\/span><\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Depending on the laws of your state, you may be able to sue based on a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/product-liability\/proving-fault-in-a-product-liability-case.html\"><span data-term-id=\"60037301\">strict liability<\/span><\/a> theory. This means that the builder is strictly liable for defects regardless of whether there was <span data-term-id=\"60037258\">negligence<\/span>. Some states place limitations on who can be sued under this theory. For example, under California law, mass developers can be sued under <span data-term-id=\"60037301\">strict liability<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>A <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/real-estate-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">local attorney<\/a> can help you understand if a claim based on a <span data-term-id=\"60037301\">strict liability<\/span> theory is available to you.<\/p>\n<h2>Review the Terms of Your Contract<\/h2>\n<p>Your <span data-term-id=\"60037261\">construction contract<\/span> may contain certain provisions regarding disputes. A <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/adr\/mediation\/mediation-vs-arbitration-vs-litigation-whats-the-difference.html\"><span data-term-id=\"60037271\">mediation<\/span> or <span data-term-id=\"60037265\">arbitration<\/span> clause<\/a> is common. These sorts of provisions require that you attempt to resolve the matter out of court through an alternative method before <span data-term-id=\"60037264\">filing a lawsuit<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p><span data-term-id=\"60037261\">Construction contracts<\/span> may also contain terms affecting liability, such as:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>How long the contractor has to sufficiently resolve the issue before the <span data-term-id=\"60037259\">property owner<\/span> can sue<\/li>\n<li>Financial caps on liability for defects<\/li>\n<li>Penalties for construction delays or incompletion due to foreseeable complications<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>It\u2019s important to know if your contract contains these provisions before filing a construction defect case. If you have difficulty understanding how the contract could limit your options, review it with an attorney.<\/p>\n<h2>When To File <span data-term-id=\"60037254\">Construction Defect Claims<\/span>: Time Limits<\/h2>\n<p>When addressing construction defects, time will likely be of the essence. So, it\u2019s important to determine your state\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/construction-defects\/construction-defect-laws-by-state.html\"><span data-term-id=\"60037262\">statute of limitations<\/span> for <span data-term-id=\"60037254\">construction defect claims<\/span><\/a>. States have different <span data-term-id=\"60037262\">statutes of limitations<\/span> that turn on a defect\u2019s date of discovery.<\/p>\n<p>Frequently, the statute begins running when a homeowner discovered or reasonably should have discovered the defect. For example, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/state\/colorado-law\/colorado-civil-statute-of-limitations-laws.html\">Colorado<\/a> has a two-year <span data-term-id=\"60037262\">statute of <\/span><span data-term-id=\"60037296\">limitations<\/span><span data-term-id=\"60037296\"> period<\/span> for construction defects.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s also important to know whether your state has a <span data-term-id=\"60037275\">statute of repose<\/span> that bars homeowners from <span data-term-id=\"60037282\">construction defect <\/span><span data-term-id=\"60037253\">litigation<\/span> after a certain length of time. <span data-term-id=\"60037275\">Statutes of repose<\/span> run from the date of completion of the home or your date of possession of the home. For example, Florida has a <a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/fl\/title-viii-limitations\/fl-st-sect-95-11.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">10-year <span data-term-id=\"60037275\">statute of repose<\/span><\/a> to sue for <span data-term-id=\"60037285\">latent defects<\/span>.<\/p>\n<h2>How To Start a <span data-term-id=\"60037290\">Construction Defect Lawsuit<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Once you verify that you have a valid claim and you are able to sue, you can begin your lawsuit by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/litigation\/filing-a-lawsuit\/starting-the-case-initial-court-papers.html\">filing a petition<\/a>. The petition will outline the failure, name the specific defendant, and demand a form of relief. You must file your claim in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/litigation\/filing-a-lawsuit\/personal-jurisdiction-how-to-determine-where-a-person-can-be.html\">proper court<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>The next step is the service of process. The <span data-term-id=\"60037276\">construction professional<\/span> must receive notice that they are the subject of a lawsuit. Some cases involve multiple <span data-term-id=\"60037260\">subcontractors<\/span>, <span data-term-id=\"60037288\">general contractors<\/span>, and their <span data-term-id=\"60037294\">insurance companies<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>As each party prepares for a trial, they typically also continue to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/litigation\/legal-system\/tips-on-negotiating.html\">attempt negotations<\/a>. By this point, a homeowner has usually given the liable party a chance to solve the problem \u2014 to no avail. But as a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/litigation\/filing-a-lawsuit\/civil-cases-the-basics.html\">complex trial<\/a> looms, the other side may be more willing to reach a fair settlement. Avoiding trial can save time and money, so a settlement is often in both sides\u2019 interests.<\/p>\n<h2>Get Legal Help With Construction Defects<\/h2>\n<p><span data-term-id=\"60037254\">Construction defect claims<\/span> have several moving parts. If you\u2019ve discovered a defect in your home, you may be able to recover the cost of repairs for <span data-term-id=\"60037266\">property damage<\/span>. If you\u2019re considering <span data-term-id=\"60037270\">legal action<\/span>, speaking with a professional is a great first step. A local <span data-term-id=\"60037286\">construction defect attorney<\/span> can explain your options and help you make an informed decision.<\/p>\n<p>FindLaw\u2019s directory of <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/construction-law\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-term-id=\"60037286\">construction defect attorneys<\/span><\/a> can get you started. Select your state or city to review contact and ratings information for local experts. Then, reach out for expert help protecting the value of your home. Many law offices offer free case evaluations.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"was-this-helpful\">\n    <div\n            class=\"was-this-helpful__question-container\"\n            aria-labelledby=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n            role=\"group\"\n    >\n        <span\n                id=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__question fl-text-lg-bold\"\n        >Was this helpful?<\/span>\n        <button\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__button fl-text-sm\"\n                aria-label=\"Yes\"\n                value=\"yes\"\n        >\n            <span class=\"was-this-helpful__button-text fl-text-bold\">Yes<\/span>\n            <i class=\"was-this-helpful__button-icon\">\n                <svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" viewBox=\"0 0 22 22\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <g id=\"thumbs-up\" clip-path=\"url(#clip0_604_3418)\">\n                        <path id=\"Vector\"\n                              d=\"M6 21H3C2.46957 21 1.96086 20.7893 1.58579 20.4142C1.21071 20.0391 1 19.5304 1 19V12C1 11.4696 1.21071 10.9609 1.58579 10.5858C1.96086 10.2107 2.46957 10 3 10H6M13 8V4C13 3.20435 12.6839 2.44129 12.1213 1.87868C11.5587 1.31607 10.7956 1 10 1L6 10V21H17.28C17.7623 21.0055 18.2304 20.8364 18.5979 20.524C18.9654 20.2116 19.2077 19.7769 19.28 19.3L20.66 10.3C20.7035 10.0134 20.6842 9.72068 20.6033 9.44225C20.5225 9.16382 20.3821 8.90629 20.1919 8.68751C20.0016 8.46873 19.7661 8.29393 19.5016 8.17522C19.2371 8.0565 18.9499 7.99672 18.66 8H13Z\"\n                              stroke=\"#666666\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\"\n                              stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><\/path>\n                    <\/g>\n                    <defs>\n                        <clipPath id=\"clip0_604_3418\">\n                            <rect width=\"22\" height=\"22\" fill=\"white\"><\/rect>\n                        <\/clipPath>\n                    <\/defs>\n                <\/svg>\n            <\/i>\n        <\/button>\n        <button\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__button fl-text-sm\"\n                aria-label=\"No\"\n                value=\"no\"\n        >\n            <span class=\"was-this-helpful__button-text fl-text-bold\">No<\/span>\n            <i class=\"was-this-helpful__button-icon\">\n                <svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" viewBox=\"0 0 22 22\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <g id=\"thumbs-down\" clip-path=\"url(#clip0_604_3423)\">\n                        <path id=\"Vector\"\n                              d=\"M16 0.999995H18.67C19.236 0.989986 19.7859 1.18813 20.2154 1.55681C20.645 1.9255 20.9242 2.43905 21 3V10C20.9242 10.5609 20.645 11.0745 20.2154 11.4432C19.7859 11.8119 19.236 12.01 18.67 12H16M9.00003 14V18C9.00003 18.7956 9.3161 19.5587 9.87871 20.1213C10.4413 20.6839 11.2044 21 12 21L16 12V0.999995H4.72003C4.2377 0.994543 3.76965 1.16359 3.40212 1.47599C3.0346 1.78839 2.79235 2.22309 2.72003 2.7L1.34003 11.7C1.29652 11.9866 1.31586 12.2793 1.39669 12.5577C1.47753 12.8362 1.61793 13.0937 1.80817 13.3125C1.99842 13.5313 2.23395 13.7061 2.49846 13.8248C2.76297 13.9435 3.05012 14.0033 3.34003 14H9.00003Z\"\n                              stroke=\"#666666\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"\/>\n                    <\/g>\n                    <defs>\n                        <clipPath id=\"clip0_604_3423\">\n                            <rect width=\"22\" height=\"22\" fill=\"white\"\/>\n                        <\/clipPath>\n                    <\/defs>\n                <\/svg>\n            <\/i>\n        <\/button>\n    <\/div>\n    <span class=\"was-this-helpful__taken-action fl-text-sm-bold\"><\/span>\n    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-container\">\n        <div class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message\" role=\"status\">\n            <p class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message-text\"><\/p>\n        <\/div>\n        <form class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form\">\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback was-this-helpful__feedback--positive\">\n                <fieldset>\n                    <legend class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\" tabindex=\"0\">Why was this helpful?<\/legend>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--understandable\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Easy to understand\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--understandable\"\n                        >Easy to understand<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--solved-problem\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Solved my problem\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--solved-problem\"\n                        >Solved my problem<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--other\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Other\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback was-this-helpful__feedback--negative\">\n                <fieldset>\n                    <legend class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\" tabindex=\"0\">Why was this not helpful?<\/legend>\n                    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message\" role=\"status\">\n                        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message-text\"><\/p>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Missing Information\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                        >Missing the information I need<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Too complicated\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                        >Too complicated \/ too many steps<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--dated\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Out of date\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--dated\"\n                        >Out of date<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--negative-other\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Other\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--negative-other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__form-buttons-container\">\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--positive at-feedback-submit fl-button secondary\"\n                    type=\"submit\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Submit<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--cancel fl-button primary disabled\"\n                    type=\"reset\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Cancel<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-times-circle medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/form>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message\" role=\"status\">\n        <i class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-icon fa fa-check\"><\/i>\n        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-text\" aria-live=\"polite\"><\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"fl-section-sidebar\"><div class=\"fl-editors-summary\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary\">\n    \n    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content\">\n                    <h2>Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?<\/h2>\n                <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\">\n            \n        <\/div>\n        <ul class=\"fl-list-style-none\">\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    Many real estate processes can be handled on your own or with the help of a realtor\n\n                <\/li>\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    Some tenant or neighbor disputes may need the help of local police\n\n                <\/li>\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    Complex real estate issues like construction defects may need the support of an attorney\n\n                <\/li>\n                    <\/ul>\n                    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\">\n                <p>Buying or selling a home, facing foreclosure, or mortgage loan issues can benefit from legal expertise. An attorney can offer tailored advice and help prevent common mistakes.<\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-link fl-flex\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-link\">\n                <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                <p class=\"find-attorney\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/real-estate-law\/#USER_GEO\/?fli=esum:FL43\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Find a local attorney<\/a><\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"email-subscription\">\n    <div class=\"email-subscription-header\">\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-header-content\">\n            <h3 class=\"fl-callout-sm fl-no-margin\">Stay Up-to-Date With How the Law Affects Your Life<\/h3>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-header-image fl-flex fl-items-end\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\"\n                src=\"https://www.findlaw.com/static/c/images\/images\/w_1200,c_limit,dpr_auto\/f_auto,q_auto:eco\/v1745902396\/ability-law\/wp-prod\/general-components-subscribe-module-Image-subscribeModule_1\/general-components-subscribe-module-Image-subscribeModule_1.png?_i=AA\"\n                alt=\"\"\n                loading=\"lazy\"\n            \/>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"email-subscription-content fl-flex fl-flex-wrap\">\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-content-text fl-mb25\">\n            <h4 class=\"fl-no-margin\">Enter your email address to subscribe<\/h4>\n        <\/div>\n\n        <form class=\"email-subscription-content-form\">\n            <input type=\"hidden\" name=\"distributionList\" value=\"latl\" \/>\n            <label for=\"email-subscription-content-form-group-input\" class=\"fl-text-sm-bold\">Email (Required)<\/label>\n            <div class=\"email-subscription-content-form-group\">\n                <input id=\"email-subscription-content-form-group-input\" name=\"email\" autocomplete=\"email\"\/>\n                <button type=\"submit\" aria-label=\"Submit\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n            <\/div>\n            <p class=\"email-subscription-content-form-success subscribe-success-message fl-text-sm-bold\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"status\">Thank you for subscribing!<\/p>\n            <p class=\"email-subscription-content-form-error subscribe-error-message fl-text-sm-bold\" role=\"alert\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/p>\n\n            <div id=\"email-subscription-content-form-recaptcha\" class=\"email-subscription-content-form-recaptcha subscribe-recaptcha\"\n                data-sitekey=\"0x4AAAAAACCzz9CV0ZsvAbzx\"><\/div>\n        <\/form>\n\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-content-footer fl-text-sm\">\n            <p><a href=\"https:\/\/newsletters.findlaw.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Learn more about FindLaw\u2019s newsletters<\/a>, including our terms of use and privacy policy.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<section\n        class=\"fl-google-preferred-card fl-flex fl-flex-column fl-items-center fl-gap10 fl-text-center fl-mt30 fl-mb30\"\n        data-testid=\"google-preferred-card\"\n>\n    <h2\n            class=\"fl-google-preferred-card-title fl-no-margin\"\n            data-testid=\"google-preferred-card-title\"\n    >\n        Did FindLaw Help You Understand This Legal Issue?\n    <\/h2>\n    <p\n            class=\"fl-google-preferred-card-paragraph fl-text-sm fl-no-margin\"\n            data-testid=\"google-preferred-card-paragraph\"\n    >\n        Make It a Preferred Google Search Source\n    <\/p>\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/preferences\/source?q=https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" class=\"fl-button fl-link-button secondary fl-google-preferred-card-button google-pref-link fl-mt20\" aria-disabled=\"false\" data-testid=\"google-preferred-card-link\" aria-label=\"Google Preferred\">\n    <span\n            class=\"fl-button-start-icon fl-flex fl-items-center\"\n            data-testid=\"google-preferred-card-icon\"\n    >\n      <svg\n              width=\"18\"\n              height=\"18\"\n              viewBox=\"0 0 18 18\"\n              fill=\"none\"\n              xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"\n              aria-hidden=\"true\"\n      >\n        <path\n                d=\"M17.64 9.2c0-.637-.057-1.251-.164-1.84H9v3.481h4.844c-.209 1.125-.843 2.078-1.796 2.716v2.259h2.908c1.702-1.567 2.684-3.875 2.684-6.615z\"\n                fill=\"#4285F4\"\n        ><\/path>\n        <path\n                d=\"M9 18c2.43 0 4.467-.806 5.956-2.184l-2.908-2.259c-.806.54-1.837.86-3.048.86-2.344 0-4.328-1.584-5.036-3.711H.957v2.332A8.997 8.997 0 0 0 9 18z\"\n                fill=\"#34A853\"\n        ><\/path>\n        <path\n                d=\"M3.964 10.706A5.41 5.41 0 0 1 3.682 9c0-.593.102-1.17.282-1.706V4.962H.957A8.996 8.996 0 0 0 0 9c0 1.452.348 2.827.957 4.038l3.007-2.332z\"\n                fill=\"#FBBC05\"\n        ><\/path>\n        <path\n                d=\"M9 3.58c1.321 0 2.508.454 3.44 1.345l2.582-2.58C13.463.891 11.426 0 9 0A8.997 8.997 0 0 0 .957 4.962L3.964 7.294C4.672 5.163 6.656 3.58 9 3.58z\"\n                fill=\"#EA4335\"\n        ><\/path>\n      <\/svg>\n    <\/span>\n        <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Add to Google<\/span>\n    <\/a>\n<\/section>\n\n<div class=\"general-list\">\n    <h3>Helpful Links<\/h3>\n    <ul class=\"fl-list fl-no-margin\">\n                                    <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/buying-a-home.html\">\n                        Buying a Home\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/landlord-tenant-law.html\">\n                        Landlord-Tenant Law\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/neighbors\/neighbor-disputes.html\">\n                        Neighbor Disputes\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                        <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n    <div class=\"popularDirectory\">\n        <div class=\"general-popular-directory \">\n            <div class=\"general-popular-directory-title\">\n                <h3>Attorney Directory<\/h3>\n            <\/div>\n            <ul>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/construction-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Construction Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/eminent-domain\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Eminent Domain Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/foreclosure-alternatives\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Foreclosure and Alternatives Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/landlord-tenant\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Landlord and Tenant Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/land-use-zoning\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Land Use and  Zoning Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/real-estate-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Real Estate Law Attorneys<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/housing-construction-defects\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Housing and Construction Defects Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                            <\/ul>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>What do you do when there\u2019s a problem with your new home? FindLaw explains construction defect claims, when to file suit, and how to find legal help.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":41135,"featured_media":0,"parent":369097,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"app\/Http\/Controllers\/Templates\/ArticleWithBreadcrumbsController.php","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_stopmodifiedupdate":true,"_modified_date":"","_autodraft_ids":[],"_cloudinary_featured_overwrite":false,"_sb_is_suggestion_mode":false,"_sb_show_suggestion_boards":false,"_sb_show_comment_boards":false,"_sb_suggestion_history":"","_sb_update_block_changes":"","_is_real_time_mode":false,"_realtime_collaborators":"","_cf_multicollab_revision_bundle":"","footnotes":"","cf_checklist_status":["SEO Title Length","External Links","Alt Text for All Images","Category Assigned"]},"categories":[2741],"tags":[],"state_laws_tags":[],"flmsa":[],"class_list":["post-369101","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry","category-realestate"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/369101","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/41135"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=369101"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/369101\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":413718,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/369101\/revisions\/413718"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/369097"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=369101"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=369101"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=369101"},{"taxonomy":"state_laws_tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/state_laws_tags?post=369101"},{"taxonomy":"flmsa","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/flmsa?post=369101"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}