A sinking foundation is a major construction defect

A foundation is one of the most critical parts of any building. A foundation helps ensure that the building stands strong and will last a lifetime or longer, even if there is terrible weather.

Bad materials or cutting corners during the process of installing the foundation can compromise a house’s structural integrity and require tens of thousands of dollars of repairs.

What are some of the warning signs that you may have to bring a construction defect lawsuit against the company that installed the foundation for your newly-constructed home?

Common warning signs of serious foundation issues

Foundations can crumble, crack or sink. While it is true that all foundations will likely settle over time, builders should take great effort to prepare the earth under the foundation to ensure even settling when it does happen.

Improper preparation of the land under the foundation and a host of other factors can compromise the integrity of the foundation. Common warning signs that owners should look for when they suspect foundation issues include:

• doors or windows that won’t easily open and close
• cracks in walls or ceilings
• cracks in flooring
• uneven or warped floors
• visible breaks or cracks in the foundation
• separation between separate sections of the building, like between the home and garage

 Builders should plan for bad weather and more

Florida is a state with plenty of water incursion risks that can complicate foundation installation. Construction professionals should account for soil types, water incursion and drainage when stabilizing the area underneath a foundation and installing the foundation itself.

Those that fail to take proper precautions may do a mediocre job that could have tens of thousands of dollars’ worth of financial implications for the homeowner. Homeowners can then take action against the company to recoup those losses.