Being a homeowner is stressful enough as it is without having to worry about construction dangerous defects. You work hard, gather savings, and do adequate research to make sure you are making the right decision. Hiring a building contractor to renovate or add on to your house is equally as stressful, as it can be hard to pick someone you trust. Unfortunately, you do not always know if you have picked the right building contractor until after the job is done. In the worst-case scenario, you or a loved one may have been injured by defective or poor construction. Dangerous electricity issues, gas leaks, contaminated water, or even mechanical problems like faulty windows or doors can cause many different injuries.

What to do if You Have Been Injured by Defective Construction?

In the state of Kentucky, if any injury, illness, or death is alleged to have been caused by defective construction, it must be stated so within a five-year window of the construction being completed. If your claim of the injury comes after five years of the construction, then it will be presumed that there was nothing defective about the construction unless strong evidence proves otherwise. If your injury happens after eight years, you will not be able to sue at all.

Gather Evidence

The most important thing to start your lawsuit is to gather evidence and then contact an attorney qualified and experienced in personal injury. Evidence should be gathered as quickly as possible. It can include copies of your contract with the builder or home inspector, medical records, photos of the construction before and after, insurance bills, proof of payment to your builder, building permits, photos of the construction that pertain to your injury, and sometimes more.

Consider Negotiating With the Builder

Going to court can take years and be very stressful. If you can, gather strong evidence and make a demand for compensation from your builder. If the evidence is strong enough, your builder will opt to pay you rather than spend time and money on a court case just to lose in the end. Allow your attorney to liaise with the defending party in negotiating a settlement. Your attorney can advise you on how good a settlement offer is, but only you can decide whether or not you want to take it. You always have control over your own case.

Settlement or Litigation

If you and the builder can agree to a settlement, then the finalization of said settlement can take as little as two weeks. Otherwise, litigation can be lengthy and complex depending on all the specifics of your case, so it is important to work with your attorney in gathering strong documentation.

Were You or a Loved One Injured by Defective Construction?

If you or someone close to you has experienced an injury, illness, or death because of faulty construction, act fast. Contact Roberts Law Office now, and we will start the process of getting you compensated.