Typical Residential Defect Allegations
- Framing conditions that show up as uneven floors, out-of-plumb walls and binding doors
- Trim, casing, base and crown with open joints or poor fastening
- Cabinet installation out of level, poorly scribed or inadequately secured
- Drywall with visible seams, ridging and fastener pops
- Flooring that cups, gaps, squeaks, cracks or lifts
- Doors, windows and hardware that do not operate properly
- Water entry related to how components were installed
- Incomplete punch list items after closing or final payment
New Homes and Production Builders
New home disputes often involve many similar homes built by the same crews. A defect that appears in one home may appear in others, or it may be unique to one lot. Paul looks at whether a condition reflects a repeated installation practice or an isolated problem. Builders' warranty documents, performance standards referenced in the purchase agreement, and inspection records are reviewed alongside the plans and the field conditions.
Remodeling and Additions
Remodeling adds a complication new construction does not have: existing conditions. An addition has to tie into an older structure; a kitchen remodel has to work with existing floors and walls that may not be level or plumb. A competent remodeler identifies those conditions and accounts for them. Paul evaluates whether the remodeler did so, and whether the conditions complained of were caused by the new work, the existing building or the connection between the two.
Water-Related Residential Defects
Water damage in a home often prompts a defect claim. Paul evaluates the installation of the components involved, such as flashings, sealants, thresholds, tile assemblies and finish materials, and whether their installation allowed water entry. He separates that question from plumbing failures, maintenance issues and weather events. He does not offer mold health opinions or engineering analysis of building envelope performance; where those are needed he will say so.
Working With Homeowners and Builders
Homeowners can call Paul directly for an initial conversation about whether their concerns appear to involve defective work. Builders and remodelers can retain him through counsel to evaluate a claim. Either way, the investigation is the same: what was required, what was built, and what the evidence shows. Defect matters Paul has worked on include residential construction cases in Will County, Illinois, and Gillette, Wyoming. Related pages: defective carpentry and finishes and incomplete construction work.