Construction defect litigation is a complex legal arena that often arises when there are issues with the design, construction, or materials used in building projects. In South Carolina, construction defect disputes can lead to lengthy legal battles with significant financial implications for all parties involved. Understanding the intricacies of construction defect litigation in South Carolina is crucial for homeowners. In this blog, we’ll delve into the key aspects of construction defect litigation in the Palmetto State.
Construction defects can manifest in various forms, including structural issues, water intrusion, foundation issues, defective materials, faulty electrical, HVAC issues, improperly installed windows, and more. These defects can compromise the safety, functionality, and value of a property, leading to disputes between property owners, contractors, and subcontractors.
In South Carolina, the Residential Builders Commission licenses qualified individuals, such as contractors, that perform residential building. Additionally, the South Carolina Notice and Opportunity to Cure Construction Dwelling Defects Act, or Right to Cure Act, provides certain protections for contractors and requires homeowners facing construction defects to provide contractors with notice of the defects before conducting repairs or filing a lawsuit. Homeowners beware, a failure to comply with the requirements of the Right to Cure Act may result in a loss of your claims, forever.
It’s important to understand the statute of repose and the statute of limitations concerning construction defect claims in South Carolina. The statute of repose generally limits the time within which a lawsuit can be filed after substantial completion of construction, while the statute of limitations sets the deadline for initiating legal action. South Carolina follows the discovery rule, meaning that the statute of limitations may begin to run when the homeowner knew, or should have known, they might have had a claim.
Construction defect litigation in South Carolina often involves complex legal issues such as breach of contract, negligence, breach of warranty, and fraud. Proving liability, causation, and damages requires a thorough investigation, intense discovery, expert testimony, and the parties are required to attempt mediation before proceeding to trial.
Construction defect litigation in South Carolina presents significant challenges. Navigating the legal landscape requires careful attention to detail and a comprehensive understanding of state laws and regulations. Given the complexities of construction defect litigation, seeking legal representation from experienced attorneys familiar with South Carolina construction law is essential. The attorneys at Cooper & Bilbrey, P.C. are experienced and knowledgeable in the realm of construction defect litigation and can help you assess the merits of your case, negotiate settlements, or, if necessary, take the appropriate legal action to protect your interests. If you or someone you know has concerns about construction defects, don’t wait, give the attorneys at Cooper & Bilbrey, P.C. a call today!
Areas of Practice:
Admiralty and Maritime Law, U.S. Coast Guard Suspension & Revocation Proceedings, Personal Injury, Wrongful Death, Construction Law, Business Law, and other Civil Matters
Bar Admissions:
South Carolina 2018
U.S. District Court, District of South Carolina 2019
U.S. Court of Federal Claims 2019
Education:
Charleston School of Law, Charleston, South Carolina, J.D. Cum Laude, 2018
Tennessee Technological University, Cookeville, TN, B.S. Business Administration, 2010
Professional Associations and Memberships:
Charleston County Bar Association
South Carolina Bar Association
American Association for Justice
South Carolina Association for Justice
Southeastern Admiralty Law Institute (SEALI), Port Director 2021-2024
Propeller Club of Charleston
Captain’s License – MMC with 100 Ton and Towing Endorsements
Charleston County Rescue Squad
Publications:
Recent Maritime Law Developments: U.S. Supreme Court and the First, Second, Third, and Fourth Circuits, SEALI Annual Seminar (2020)
