Construction Law

Construction Defects: 4 Causes of Foundation Failure featured image

Construction Defects: 4 Causes of Foundation Failure

Because Florida’s water table is generally close to the surface, there is often a seasonal deluge of rain, and sand is a common soil type, defects in concrete slabs can occur. Whether you’re working on a site with an existing foundation or laying a new foundation, it’s important to know what can go wrong. Construction defects are complicated matters. If something causes a foundation on your job site to fail, contact a construction lawyer.

Construction defects are not always the contractor’s responsibility, they may be due to a subcontractor or natural event. In this article, a St. Petersburg construction attorney informs you of four possible causes of foundation failure.

1. Soil

If the area under the site of the foundation is not properly compacted, it can cause cracks in the foundation as it settles. Erosion caused by poor drainage can also cause soil beneath the foundation to wash away which can cause instability. This situation can be caused by a neighbor building up their yard, changing drainage patterns, and especially rainy seasons. Further issues can come into play if clay is found in the soil as it can be expansive and slow to drain

2. Poor Workmanship

Though not the only cause of foundation failure, poor workmanship is one possible cause. If a worker mixed in too much water to the concrete, it could cause the cement to crack. Improper leveling of a foundation can also affect the stability of the foundation and building as a result.

3. Sinkholes

Florida’s natural landscape is influenced by its underground aquifers. Limestone bedrock and sand can cause collapsing soil if water levels in the aquifer decrease or sandy soil is washed through the porous limestone. Due to Florida’s soil profile, a plumbing leak under a home could cause erosion and result in a sinkhole.

4. Roots

Some fast-growing trees like water oaks can heave up foundations with their roots. Any large tree near the foundation could grow to crack a carefully laid foundation. It’s important to survey the land and space trees and other plants far enough away from the building to give them room to grow.

Next Steps

If an owner is trying to hold you liable or your insurance company is denying your claim, you need strong representation from a St. Petersburg construction attorney. The lawyers at Cotney Attorneys & Consultants have experience with construction defect cases. We can also help you with lien law, bond claims, and OSHA citations.

If you would like to speak with our St. Petersburg construction lawyers, please contact us today.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.