Builders and contractors know the inherent problems that can beleaguer construction sites, raise costs and lower their bottom lines. One of the major problems they dread is water intrusion.
Learn more about the problem and how to hold subcontractors accountable for any performance failures on the job site.
What water intrusion is
Water intrusion consists of unwanted water vapors or water movement in parts of a structure where damage may occur. Below are a few common examples of construction problems stemming from water intrusion:
- Improper transitions and terminations in the envelope membrane of the structure
- Roof leaks
- Water penetration
- Generalized flooding
- Water seeping through cracks in building edifice
These are not the only types of water intrusion that can derail a project’s completion. Any sudden appearance of water on a construction site should be thoroughly investigated to determine its source.
Problems with unchecked water intrusion
Water intrusion affects the structural integrity of a building. Below are some examples of the damage that can result from water intrusion:
Water intrusion can impact the structure of your building as well as its occupants. Besides presenting structural issues, water intrusion issues left untreated can result in:
- Structural failure
- Poor indoor air quality
- Toxic mold growth
- Puddling, wet and weakened floors
If not taken care of immediately, these problems will worsen, causing the property owner to seek civil relief via litigation.
Prevent legal problems now
At the first signs of water intrusion, contractors should immediately identify the source and address the issue with the relevant subcontractor responsible for the problem. Quickly identifying and fixing the problem before it creates a bigger onsite and legal blunder is your first recourse.
Should the problem persist, contractors should seek legal information to guide their responses.