{"id":369102,"date":"2016-04-04T10:47:12","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T15:47:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/realestate\/construction-defects\/construction-defect-faqs.html"},"modified":"2024-05-02T15:35:32","modified_gmt":"2024-05-02T20:35:32","slug":"construction-defect-faqs","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/construction-defects\/construction-defect-faqs.html","title":{"rendered":"Construction Defect FAQ"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 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\">Construction Defect FAQ<\/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                            May 02, 2024\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-callout-text article-blockquote\">\n        <p>A construction defect is a condition in your home that reduces the value of the property. Whether you\u2019re a new home buyer or a longtime property owner, this page will provide answers and disclaimers to frequently asked questions (FAQ) that may be helpful to your situation.<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Some defects are obvious such as water intrusion, but many are less obvious (latent defects) and do not become apparent until years after a home was built. For instance, it may be obvious to the naked eye that the stucco on your condominium is chipping off. Underneath all the cement, however, there may be issues with the home\u2019s foundation that aren\u2019t discovered until the home starts sinking.<\/p>\n<p>Construction defects sometimes justify taking legal action. While homeowners can resolve some problems without escalating to that level, defects may cause serious damage. A <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/construction-law\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">construction law attorney<\/a> can assess your options and offer advice.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>See answers to common questions about real estate and construction defects below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<section class=\"fl-faq\">\n    <div\n            class=\"fl-accordion fl-faq-container fl-container\"\n            id=\"faq\"\n            data-testid=\"fl-accordion\"\n    >\n        <div class=\"fl-faq-heading-row fl-flex\">\n            <ul\n                    class=\"fl-faq-buttons fl-flex fl-flex-row fl-items-center fl-no-spacing\"\n                    aria-label=\"View all Frequently Asked Questions\"\n            >\n                <li class=\"fl-faq-buttons-item\">\n                    <button\n                            id=\"button-show-faq\"\n                            data-testid=\"button-show-faq\"\n                            class=\"fl-accordion-filter-button fl-accordion-filter-button-show\"\n                            type=\"button\"\n                            data-focus-other-button=\"true\"\n                            aria-current=\"true\"\n                            aria-disabled=\"true\"\n                            disabled=\"\"\n                    >\n                        Show All\n                    <\/button>\n                <\/li>\n                <li><span aria-hidden=\"true\">|<\/span><\/li>\n                <li class=\"fl-faq-buttons-item\">\n                    <button\n                            id=\"button-hide-faq\"\n                            data-testid=\"button-hide-faq\"\n                            class=\"fl-accordion-filter-button fl-accordion-filter-button-hide\"\n                            type=\"button\"\n                            data-focus-other-button=\"true\"\n                            aria-current=\"true\"\n                            aria-disabled=\"true\"\n                            disabled=\"\"\n                    >\n                        Hide All\n                    <\/button>\n                <\/li>\n            <\/ul>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"fl-faq-questions\">\n            <h3\n                    class=\"fl-faq-title fl-no-margin\"\n                    data-testid=\"fl-faq-title\"\n            >\n                Frequently Asked Questions About Construction Defects\n            <\/h3>\n                            <div\n                        class=\"fl-accordion-item\"\n                        id=\"section-1-faq\"\n                        aria-labelledby=\"button-1-faq\"\n                        data-testid=\"fl-accordion-item\"\n                >\n                    <h4\n                            class=\"fl-accordion-header fl-flex fl-items-center fl-justify-between fl-no-margin\"\n                            data-testid=\"fl-faq-question-header-1\"\n                    >\n                        <button\n                                id=\"button-1-faq\"\n                                aria-expanded=\"true\"\n                                aria-controls=\"content-1-faq\"\n                                class=\"fl-accordion-button fl-accordion-button-h4 fl-flex fl-flex-auto fl-justify-between is-opened fl-text-underline\"\n                                type=\"button\"\n                        >\n                            What causes a construction defect?\n                            <span aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                                <i\n                                        class=\"fa fa-angle-down small\"\n                                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                                ><\/i>\n                            <\/span>\n                        <\/button>\n                    <\/h4>\n                    <div\n                            class=\"fl-accordion-content active\"\n                            data-testid=\"fl-faq-question-content-1\"\n                            id=\"content-1-faq\"\n                            role=\"region\"\n                            aria-labelledby=\"button-1-faq\"\n                    >\n                        <p>A construction defect can arise from a variety of factors, such as poor workmanship or the use of inferior materials.<\/p>\n<p>Many arise from a combination of factors, including:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Improper soil analysis and preparation<\/li>\n<li>Site selection and planning<\/li>\n<li>Civil and structural engineering<\/li>\n<li>Negligent construction<\/li>\n<li>Defective building materials<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If you discover a defect soon enough, you may be able to file a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/consumer-transactions\/consumer-warranty-basics.html\">warranty claim<\/a> with your contractor. Hopefully, they will be willing to correct the problem before you are forced to take more drastic legal action.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                            <div\n                        class=\"fl-accordion-item\"\n                        id=\"section-2-faq\"\n                        aria-labelledby=\"button-2-faq\"\n                        data-testid=\"fl-accordion-item\"\n                >\n                    <h4\n                            class=\"fl-accordion-header fl-flex fl-items-center fl-justify-between fl-no-margin\"\n                            data-testid=\"fl-faq-question-header-2\"\n                    >\n                        <button\n                                id=\"button-2-faq\"\n                                aria-expanded=\"true\"\n                                aria-controls=\"content-2-faq\"\n                                class=\"fl-accordion-button fl-accordion-button-h4 fl-flex fl-flex-auto fl-justify-between is-opened fl-text-underline\"\n                                type=\"button\"\n                        >\n                            What are some of the most common types of construction defects?\n                            <span aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                                <i\n                                        class=\"fa fa-angle-down small\"\n                                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                                ><\/i>\n                            <\/span>\n                        <\/button>\n                    <\/h4>\n                    <div\n                            class=\"fl-accordion-content active\"\n                            data-testid=\"fl-faq-question-content-2\"\n                            id=\"content-2-faq\"\n                            role=\"region\"\n                            aria-labelledby=\"button-2-faq\"\n                    >\n                        <p>The most common types of defects involved in litigation include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Water issues (often leading to mold)<\/li>\n<li>Electrical and heating systems<\/li>\n<li>Landscaping and soil<\/li>\n<li>Faulty drainage<\/li>\n<li>Foundation, floor, wall, and roof cracks<\/li>\n<li>Dry rot<\/li>\n<li>Structural failure<\/li>\n<li>Plumbing<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>While these are the most common, there are many other types as well.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                            <div\n                        class=\"fl-accordion-item\"\n                        id=\"section-3-faq\"\n                        aria-labelledby=\"button-3-faq\"\n                        data-testid=\"fl-accordion-item\"\n                >\n                    <h4\n                            class=\"fl-accordion-header fl-flex fl-items-center fl-justify-between fl-no-margin\"\n                            data-testid=\"fl-faq-question-header-3\"\n                    >\n                        <button\n                                id=\"button-3-faq\"\n                                aria-expanded=\"true\"\n                                aria-controls=\"content-3-faq\"\n                                class=\"fl-accordion-button fl-accordion-button-h4 fl-flex fl-flex-auto fl-justify-between is-opened fl-text-underline\"\n                                type=\"button\"\n                        >\n                            How is a construction defect proven in court?\n                            <span aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                                <i\n                                        class=\"fa fa-angle-down small\"\n                                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                                ><\/i>\n                            <\/span>\n                        <\/button>\n                    <\/h4>\n                    <div\n                            class=\"fl-accordion-content active\"\n                            data-testid=\"fl-faq-question-content-3\"\n                            id=\"content-3-faq\"\n                            role=\"region\"\n                            aria-labelledby=\"button-3-faq\"\n                    >\n                        <p>It depends on the defect. Some defects are obvious and are called patent. Other defects are hidden or do not become apparent until years after the home was built. These defects are called latent.<\/p>\n<p>A successful construction defect litigation claim relies on the testimony of experts who specialize in specific areas of construction. The experts investigate the defect, evaluate the cause, and make recommendations for how to remedy the defects.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                            <div\n                        class=\"fl-accordion-item\"\n                        id=\"section-4-faq\"\n                        aria-labelledby=\"button-4-faq\"\n                        data-testid=\"fl-accordion-item\"\n                >\n                    <h4\n                            class=\"fl-accordion-header fl-flex fl-items-center fl-justify-between fl-no-margin\"\n                            data-testid=\"fl-faq-question-header-4\"\n                    >\n                        <button\n                                id=\"button-4-faq\"\n                                aria-expanded=\"true\"\n                                aria-controls=\"content-4-faq\"\n                                class=\"fl-accordion-button fl-accordion-button-h4 fl-flex fl-flex-auto fl-justify-between is-opened fl-text-underline\"\n                                type=\"button\"\n                        >\n                            What kind of damages can be recovered?\n                            <span aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                                <i\n                                        class=\"fa fa-angle-down small\"\n                                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                                ><\/i>\n                            <\/span>\n                        <\/button>\n                    <\/h4>\n                    <div\n                            class=\"fl-accordion-content active\"\n                            data-testid=\"fl-faq-question-content-4\"\n                            id=\"content-4-faq\"\n                            role=\"region\"\n                            aria-labelledby=\"button-4-faq\"\n                    >\n                        <p>It depends on the facts and circumstances of your case. In general, the cost of repairs and the decline in the value of your home may be recoverable. In addition, other recoverable damages might include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Loss of the use of the property during the repair<\/li>\n<li>Cost of temporary housing<\/li>\n<li>Court costs<\/li>\n<li>Attorney&#8217;s fees, if provided for in the contract or by your state&#8217;s laws<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Any personal injuries resulting from the defect may be recovered. In some instances, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/legalblogs\/personal-injury\/when-can-you-sue-for-punitive-damages\">punitive damages<\/a> may be assessed against the defendant if the court finds their behavior to be reckless and intentional.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                            <div\n                        class=\"fl-accordion-item\"\n                        id=\"section-5-faq\"\n                        aria-labelledby=\"button-5-faq\"\n                        data-testid=\"fl-accordion-item\"\n                >\n                    <h4\n                            class=\"fl-accordion-header fl-flex fl-items-center fl-justify-between fl-no-margin\"\n                            data-testid=\"fl-faq-question-header-5\"\n                    >\n                        <button\n                                id=\"button-5-faq\"\n                                aria-expanded=\"true\"\n                                aria-controls=\"content-5-faq\"\n                                class=\"fl-accordion-button fl-accordion-button-h4 fl-flex fl-flex-auto fl-justify-between is-opened fl-text-underline\"\n                                type=\"button\"\n                        >\n                            Who pays for the damages?\n                            <span aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                                <i\n                                        class=\"fa fa-angle-down small\"\n                                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                                ><\/i>\n                            <\/span>\n                        <\/button>\n                    <\/h4>\n                    <div\n                            class=\"fl-accordion-content active\"\n                            data-testid=\"fl-faq-question-content-5\"\n                            id=\"content-5-faq\"\n                            role=\"region\"\n                            aria-labelledby=\"button-5-faq\"\n                    >\n                        <p>Builders, developers, contractors, and construction companies may be sued as defendants in these types of cases. Assuming you prevail against a defendant, the defendant&#8217;s insurance company that was in effect when the damage was first noticed will be responsible for paying the damages.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                            <div\n                        class=\"fl-accordion-item\"\n                        id=\"section-6-faq\"\n                        aria-labelledby=\"button-6-faq\"\n                        data-testid=\"fl-accordion-item\"\n                >\n                    <h4\n                            class=\"fl-accordion-header fl-flex fl-items-center fl-justify-between fl-no-margin\"\n                            data-testid=\"fl-faq-question-header-6\"\n                    >\n                        <button\n                                id=\"button-6-faq\"\n                                aria-expanded=\"true\"\n                                aria-controls=\"content-6-faq\"\n                                class=\"fl-accordion-button fl-accordion-button-h4 fl-flex fl-flex-auto fl-justify-between is-opened fl-text-underline\"\n                                type=\"button\"\n                        >\n                            Who else is responsible for construction defects?\n                            <span aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                                <i\n                                        class=\"fa fa-angle-down small\"\n                                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                                ><\/i>\n                            <\/span>\n                        <\/button>\n                    <\/h4>\n                    <div\n                            class=\"fl-accordion-content active\"\n                            data-testid=\"fl-faq-question-content-6\"\n                            id=\"content-6-faq\"\n                            role=\"region\"\n                            aria-labelledby=\"button-6-faq\"\n                    >\n                        <p>There may be several responsible parties, but the responsibility will belong to the general contractors, developers, and builders of residential structures. This is true even if the work was performed by subcontractors or if the defective materials used in construction were manufactured by others.<\/p>\n<p>Architects, designers, and other involved parties may also be defendants in litigation.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                            <div\n                        class=\"fl-accordion-item\"\n                        id=\"section-7-faq\"\n                        aria-labelledby=\"button-7-faq\"\n                        data-testid=\"fl-accordion-item\"\n                >\n                    <h4\n                            class=\"fl-accordion-header fl-flex fl-items-center fl-justify-between fl-no-margin\"\n                            data-testid=\"fl-faq-question-header-7\"\n                    >\n                        <button\n                                id=\"button-7-faq\"\n                                aria-expanded=\"true\"\n                                aria-controls=\"content-7-faq\"\n                                class=\"fl-accordion-button fl-accordion-button-h4 fl-flex fl-flex-auto fl-justify-between is-opened fl-text-underline\"\n                                type=\"button\"\n                        >\n                            Are there any time limits on filing a lawsuit for repairs?\n                            <span aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                                <i\n                                        class=\"fa fa-angle-down small\"\n                                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                                ><\/i>\n                            <\/span>\n                        <\/button>\n                    <\/h4>\n                    <div\n                            class=\"fl-accordion-content active\"\n                            data-testid=\"fl-faq-question-content-7\"\n                            id=\"content-7-faq\"\n                            role=\"region\"\n                            aria-labelledby=\"button-7-faq\"\n                    >\n                        <p>Yes, but it varies by state. Many states have legislation that requires the homeowner or homeowners association to:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Notify the developer or contractor of the defect<\/li>\n<li>Give them an opportunity to remedy the damage<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>You can file a lawsuit if the defect is not repaired. The time limit for filing a lawsuit, known as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/accident-injury-law\/time-limits-to-bring-a-case-the-statute-of-limitations.html\">the statute of limitations<\/a>, also depends on whether the defect is either latent (hidden and not obvious to a reasonable person) or patent (obvious).<\/p>\n<p>The shortest time limit is three years from the date the defect is discovered or should have discovered the problem, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/construction-defects\/construction-defect-laws-by-state.html\">but this can vary by state<\/a>. Other laws, such as\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/dictionary.findlaw.com\/definition\/statute-of-repose.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">statutes of repose<\/a>, start from the date of completion of the home.<\/p>\n<p>As you can see, it&#8217;s important to take action sooner rather than later if your home has a construction defect.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                            <div\n                        class=\"fl-accordion-item\"\n                        id=\"section-8-faq\"\n                        aria-labelledby=\"button-8-faq\"\n                        data-testid=\"fl-accordion-item\"\n                >\n                    <h4\n                            class=\"fl-accordion-header fl-flex fl-items-center fl-justify-between fl-no-margin\"\n                            data-testid=\"fl-faq-question-header-8\"\n                    >\n                        <button\n                                id=\"button-8-faq\"\n                                aria-expanded=\"true\"\n                                aria-controls=\"content-8-faq\"\n                                class=\"fl-accordion-button fl-accordion-button-h4 fl-flex fl-flex-auto fl-justify-between is-opened fl-text-underline\"\n                                type=\"button\"\n                        >\n                            Should I make repairs while the lawsuit is pending? Can I recover those costs in the lawsuit?\n                            <span aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                                <i\n                                        class=\"fa fa-angle-down small\"\n                                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                                ><\/i>\n                            <\/span>\n                        <\/button>\n                    <\/h4>\n                    <div\n                            class=\"fl-accordion-content active\"\n                            data-testid=\"fl-faq-question-content-8\"\n                            id=\"content-8-faq\"\n                            role=\"region\"\n                            aria-labelledby=\"button-8-faq\"\n                    >\n                        <p>The homeowner or homeowner&#8217;s association is required to protect property from sustaining additional damage. This is known as the legal <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/accident-injury-law\/the-plaintiff-s-duty-to-mitigate-damages.html\">duty to mitigate damages<\/a>. Such costs are recoverable in the lawsuit if the plaintiff prevails.<\/p>\n<p>Failure to perform routine maintenance and reasonable repairs can cause or contribute to additional damages. These could be offset from the owner&#8217;s claim and lead to the defense of &#8220;failure to mitigate damages.&#8221;<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                            <div\n                        class=\"fl-accordion-item\"\n                        id=\"section-9-faq\"\n                        aria-labelledby=\"button-9-faq\"\n                        data-testid=\"fl-accordion-item\"\n                >\n                    <h4\n                            class=\"fl-accordion-header fl-flex fl-items-center fl-justify-between fl-no-margin\"\n                            data-testid=\"fl-faq-question-header-9\"\n                    >\n                        <button\n                                id=\"button-9-faq\"\n                                aria-expanded=\"true\"\n                                aria-controls=\"content-9-faq\"\n                                class=\"fl-accordion-button fl-accordion-button-h4 fl-flex fl-flex-auto fl-justify-between is-opened fl-text-underline\"\n                                type=\"button\"\n                        >\n                            Can I sell my home during a pending lawsuit?\n                            <span aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                                <i\n                                        class=\"fa fa-angle-down small\"\n                                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                                ><\/i>\n                            <\/span>\n                        <\/button>\n                    <\/h4>\n                    <div\n                            class=\"fl-accordion-content active\"\n                            data-testid=\"fl-faq-question-content-9\"\n                            id=\"content-9-faq\"\n                            role=\"region\"\n                            aria-labelledby=\"button-9-faq\"\n                    >\n                        <p>In general, homeowners may sell their homes during such lawsuits as long as the marketable title is not affected by a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/dictionary.findlaw.com\/definition\/lis-pendens.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">lis pendens<\/a>. A lis pendens is a pending lawsuit for which a plaintiff <a href=\"https:\/\/dictionary.findlaw.com\/definition\/encumber.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">encumbers a property<\/a>. This will prevent its sale until the matter is resolved.<\/p>\n<p>Most states have a disclosure law that requires a homeowner to disclose to a potential buyer that the home is involved in litigation.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How a Lawyer Can Help With a Construction Defect Claim<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Construction defect cases can involve complicated laws and building codes. These are legal issues that are best resolved through a client relationship with an attorney. You should consult with a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/real-estate-law\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">real estate attorney<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/construction-law\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">construction defect attorney<\/a> to get legal advice accordingly.<\/p>\n\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                              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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 (such as construction defects or illegal landlord actions) 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 fl-mb30\">\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                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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<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\/construction-defects\/construction-defect-claims-overview.html\">\n                        Construction Defect Claims Overview\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\/construction-defects\/can-i-sue-an-hvac-company.html\">\n                        Can I Sue an HVAC Company?\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\/hirealawyer\/choosing-the-right-lawyer\/construction-law.html\">\n                        What Is Construction Law?\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>Nobody wants to deal with construction defects, but knowing what to do is a big help. Learn about warranty claims, patent defects, latent defects, statutes of limitations, and much more at FindLaw.com.<\/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":"","footnotes":"","cf_checklist_status":[]},"categories":[2741],"tags":[],"state_laws_tags":[],"flmsa":[],"class_list":["post-369102","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry","category-realestate"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/369102","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=369102"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/369102\/revisions"}],"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=369102"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=369102"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=369102"},{"taxonomy":"state_laws_tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/state_laws_tags?post=369102"},{"taxonomy":"flmsa","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/flmsa?post=369102"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}