Rain Leaks in New Construction
Several leaks developed around windows and in ceilings in our building over the weekend when it was pouring. It’s a newly constructed building. I’ve heard through the grapevine that other new construction buildings in our area have experienced the same thing. Sounds like cheap labor contributed to poor construction and we pay the price. I’m…
Several leaks developed around windows and in ceilings in our building over the weekend when it was pouring. It’s a newly constructed building. I’ve heard through the grapevine that other new construction buildings in our area have experienced the same thing. Sounds like cheap labor contributed to poor construction and we pay the price. I’m wondering what other folks are doing about it? Finding the source of the leak can be costly. Is it the developer’s responsibility to take care of it? I envision window frames being removed and holes being cut in walls in ceilings in order to find the source of the leaks. Is that the only course of action?
The only thing i can suggest is some forensic engineering consulting, and the cheapest firm I know( depends on work?) is AGPE PLLC….
347-787-3338
Good Luck
Thanks for all the sound advice. The building has been occupied for about a year and a half now.
To Action Jackson, how can a buyer beware when the conditions don’t present themselves until well after the buyer closes and inspections prior to closing revealed no obvious reasons to be concerned about leaks?
Most of these new condominium buildings in Brooklyn were built NON-union…..makes you think
Consult your offering plan to see how long the developer is liable for damages/repairs resulting from defective materials or workmanship. Then, as a whole building, contact the developer and ask him to make the repairs.
If you really want to cover yourself and be sure that the developer is not just going to make cosmetic repairs, hire an independent building engineer/inspector to come and find out where the problems are and what damage has been done. They can also check for mold. That way, you have a solid professional opinion and a recommended scope of work that you can present the developer with. Of course, you can let the developer do his own assessment and not pay an engineer yourself, but I don’t recommend it.
They may have to cut holes in certain places to find everything – but ultimately, that’s much preferable than not finding all the leaks/damage and facing a much bigger more expensive issue down the line.
Not to be crass, but “buyer beware.”
What’s the developers culpability on your offering plan?
How “new” is the construction? Same thing happened to our building, and the developer was all over it (visiting to check damage; scheduling roofers/waterproofers…) and repeatedly said it was his responsibility. I think if you’re still within 2-3 years of 1st closing, the developer is responsible…
Another unfortunate example of what I harp on over and over again.
I’m assuming the developer is no longer involved. You need to consult the condominium’s insurance policy and get a lawyer. For the leak itself, look for recommendations on roofers. the longer you wait, the more damage will happen.