Construction Defects

Senate Bill 800 | The Fix It Law

Senate Bill 800, known as the Fix It Law, allows builders the opportunity to fix damages resulting from defects in construction before a lawsuit can be filed. It also established residential building standards with which all new residential construction must comply. The Law Offices of Michael A. Hearn has worked with these procedures and standards since their enactment, bringing significant expertise to our clients. 

The Fix it Law pre-litigation procedures also set forth strict timelines which all parties must follow. For example, a homeowner or association must provide written notice to the builder of the defects and allow the builder an opportunity to inspect the damages prior to filing a lawsuit.  The builder then has 14 days to acknowledge the claim or they will forfeit their rights under the Fix It Law.

The Fix It Law also established a set of building standards for residential construction including categories for:

• water intrusion
• structural issues
• soil problems
• fire protection
• plumbing and sewer problems
• electrical problems

For example, windows and doors shall not allow water to leak into the structure; also, driveways, sidewalks, sidewalls, hardscape, planter walls, and other backyard improvements installed by the builder shall not crack or contain excessive vertical displacement.

If you believe you have violations of the building standards on your property, please contact us for a free multi-phase investigation at no cost.