Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most people will ever make. Unfortunately, some homeowners in Missouri discover too late that their new house has serious construction defects. When these problems arise because of negligence (essentially meaning the same thing as carelessness), a bad house lawyer can help you take legal action and recover the cost of repairs.
Missouri law grants homeowners the right to seek compensation when a property is sold with known or undisclosed unsafe defects. Keep reading to learn more.
How Do Defective Home Claims Work in Missouri?
A construction defect is any flaw in the design, materials, or workmanship that renders a home unfit for habitation. These issues can appear immediately after construction or take years to manifest.
Common examples include:
- Cracked or sinking foundations
- Roof and window leaks
- Mold and water damage
- Faulty electrical systems
- Failed plumbing
- Structural problems
- Defective insulation
- Improper drainage
In Missouri, both newly built and recently sold homes may qualify for a legal claim if the seller or builder failed to disclose problems and did not perform work in accordance with accepted building standards.
How a Defective House Lawyer Can Help
A defective house attorney’s main job is to protect your investment and hold the responsible parties accountable. These cases often require a detailed investigation and expert testimony, and your lawyer will handle every stage of the process, including:
- Evaluating your claim: Your lawyer will review inspection reports and other evidence to determine whether you have a valid case under Missouri law.
- Identifying liable parties: This might include builders, subcontractors, engineers, and more.
- Gathering expert evidence: Attorneys work with building inspectors, engineers, and construction experts to confirm that the defect violates code or professional standards.
- Negotiating with insurers: Many construction companies and sellers are backed by insurance. Your lawyer can handle these negotiations to pursue a fair settlement.
- Filing a lawsuit if necessary: If the other side refuses to take responsibility, your attorney can file a lawsuit and represent you in court.
These cases can involve both negligence and breach of contract claims. A lawyer who understands both construction law and real estate law can make sure all possible legal options are explored effectively on your behalf.
What Damages Can I Recover in a Bad House Claim?
The goal of a defective house case is to restore the homeowner to the financial position they would have been in if the property had been properly built or disclosed. Depending on the facts of your case, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- The cost to repair and/or replace defective work
- Loss in property value
- Temporary housing expenses
- Mold and water damage remediation
- Relocation charges
- Attorney fees and court costs
In some cases, construction defects can result in catastrophic injuries—such as falls, electrical burns, or carbon monoxide exposure.
Missouri’s Time Limit for Construction Defect Lawsuits
Missouri law limits how long you have to take legal action for defective construction. In most cases, lawsuits must be filed within ten years of the substantial completion of the property. However, note that some cases may have a five-year time limit instead.
Since these deadlines can vary depending on the facts of the case, it’s important to speak with an experienced attorney as soon as you notice a problem. Waiting too long could prevent you from recovering any compensation altogether.
Contact Our Kansas City Bad House Lawyers at Cohen Law Firm Today for a Free Consultation
If your Missouri home has serious defects, you may not have to face the financial burden without legal recourse. An experienced Kansas City bad house attorney can investigate the cause of the problem and fight to recover the money you’ve lost.
Call Cohen Law Firm today to schedule a free consultation.