Things to Consider in A Construction Dispute

When a client commissions you to carry out building work, they have certain expectations of how the finished product will be. As a construction company owner, you do your best to meet these expectations. However, sometimes the client is unhappy.

Some Construction Disputes Have a Simple Solution

Take time to think through everything before you answer the client. Here are some things to consider:

• Is there anything wrong? Just because the client thinks something is wrong does not mean there is. They may not understand why something is a certain way. Taking the time to explain why a particular joint is a specific way for structural reasons may be all that is needed.

• If there is a defect, whose fault is it? Depending on your role in the job, the responsibility may or may not lie with you. If you are in overall charge of the project, blaming it on a subcontractor will not go down well. However, if a crack in the wall appeared because the internet installer the client hired was clumsy with the drill, say so.

• Can you remedy the defect: Solving a problem is often easier than arguing about it. While some clients enjoy grumbling, most just want a solution.

• What is the long-term cost? Try to keep the bigger picture in mind. While redoing work will cost you time and money, it might help you retain a valuable long-term client and protects your reputation. It could work out cheaper in the long run.

There may be times when taking a construction dispute to litigation is the correct course of action. However, there are often more straightforward ways to solve issues. Understanding the legal details of your contract and responsibilities is essential to determine what action to take.