In a guest column published in Seniors Housing Business, Partner Megan A. Picataggio examines how owners of senior housing facilities must not cut corners during construction to save money, as this could result in extensive—and expensive—problems later, including potential litigation.
“Signs of construction defects can manifest as early as project completion, though it may take time for visible damage to occur,” Picataggio wrote. “By taking time to maintain and investigate their communities, operators can anticipate and prepare for resulting litigation, as most construction lawsuits relate to deficiencies in the design, construction work, or manufactured materials.”
The work isn’t done once the construction ends, either. Owners must perform proactive maintenance to continually examine for water leakage and other problems, document all issues, and hire qualified professionals to ameliorate the problems. They may also need to hire legal counsel if they suspect any construction-related defects.
“Owners should be sure to discuss the applicable statutes of limitation and repose with a qualified attorney to ensure an action is brought timely,” Picataggio wrote. “Through effective risk management during and after construction, owners and operators can effectively prepare for exposure to construction defects and any subsequent litigation.”
Read the story in full; click here.