Construction Defects in Your Charleston Property? Get Connected with Experienced Legal Help
Don't pay for someone else's construction mistakes. We help Charleston homeowners understand their rights and connect them with experienced construction law attorneys who can recover compensation for structural issues, water damage, foundation problems, and more.
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- Foundation settling and cracks
- Water intrusion and mold
- Structural engineering defects
- Roofing and siding issues
- HVAC and electrical problems
Foundation Settlement in Clay Soil
Charleston's expansive clay soil causes significant foundation movement, especially in areas like West Ashley and Summerville. Poor soil preparation during construction leads to costly repairs.
- Stepped cracks in brick veneer (common in Mount Pleasant developments)
- Pier settlement in elevated coastal homes
- Slab cracking in Daniel Island concrete foundations
- Crawl space flooding from poor drainage design
- Foundation heaving during wet seasons
Hurricane & Flood Water Damage
Improper sealing and waterproofing in Charleston's hurricane-prone climate leads to devastating water intrusion. Many builders fail to properly prepare for our 80% humidity and seasonal flooding.
- Black mold behind improperly installed siding (Isle of Palms condos)
- Window seal failures allowing salt air penetration
- Roof leaks from inadequate hurricane strapping
- Crawl space flooding from missing vapor barriers
- HVAC duct condensation causing ceiling damage
- Stucco cracking allowing moisture intrusion (James Island homes)
Know Your Legal Rights
South Carolina law protects property owners from construction defects. We help you understand your options and connect you with experienced attorneys who won't let contractors avoid responsibility.
- 8-year statute of limitations from completion
- 3-year discovery rule applies
- Contractor warranty obligations
- Attorney referral for qualified cases
Salt Air Corrosion & Coastal Damage
Charleston's salt air and coastal storms create unique challenges. Many contractors fail to use proper materials or techniques for our marine environment.
- Premature metal roof corrosion (Folly Beach properties)
- HVAC system failures from salt air exposure
- Concrete spalling in parking garages near harbor
- Window frame deterioration from salt spray
- Deck and railing failures on waterfront homes
HVAC Failures & Condensation Issues
Charleston's extreme humidity overwhelms poorly designed HVAC systems. This condensation buildup shows how inadequate dehumidification creates serious moisture problems in Lowcountry homes.
- Excessive window condensation from poor HVAC design
- Heat pump failures in new Summerville subdivisions
- Ductwork sweating in humid crawl spaces
- Indoor air quality problems from moisture buildup
- Mold growth from inadequate ventilation systems
Gutter System Failures & Damage
This gutter damage shows typical failures from Charleston's coastal winds and storms. Poor installation and inadequate fastening create expensive water damage that affects the entire property.
- Gutter separation and detachment during storms
- Water overflow causing foundation undermining
- Fascia board rot from improper drainage
- Structural damage from concentrated water flow
- Interior water intrusion during heavy rains
Why Water Intrusion is Critical in Charleston
Charleston's unique environmental conditions—including high humidity, frequent storms, and proximity to water—make proper construction waterproofing absolutely essential. Poor construction practices can lead to catastrophic water damage that threatens your property's structural integrity and your family's health.
Common Causes of Water Intrusion in Charleston Properties
Building Envelope Failures
- Improperly installed windows and doors
- Missing or damaged flashing
- Inadequate caulking and sealants
- Poor siding installation
- Stucco and EIFS defects
Roofing Defects
- Inadequate roof slope for Charleston rainfall
- Defective shingle installation
- Missing or improperly installed underlayment
- Valley and chimney flashing failures
- Insufficient ventilation causing condensation
Foundation & Grading Issues
- Improper lot grading allowing water pooling
- Inadequate foundation waterproofing
- Missing or clogged drainage systems
- Hydrostatic pressure from high water table
- Basement and crawlspace water seepage
Plumbing Defects
- Improperly installed supply lines
- Defective drain and waste systems
- Water heater installation errors
- Washing machine and dishwasher connections
- Condensate line failures in HVAC systems
HVAC & Mechanical Systems
- Air conditioning condensation leaks
- Improperly insulated ductwork causing moisture
- Missing or clogged condensate drain pans
- Refrigerant line condensation issues
- Ventilation system failures trapping humidity
Balconies & Exterior Structures
- Deck waterproofing failures
- Balcony drainage system defects
- Improperly sealed sliding door thresholds
- Missing or damaged deck membranes
- Wood rot in exterior support structures
The Devastating Consequences of Water Intrusion
Structural Damage
Wood rot, rusted fasteners, deteriorated framing, compromised load-bearing members, and foundation undermining.
Mold & Health Hazards
Toxic mold growth causing respiratory issues, allergies, and serious health problems requiring professional remediation.
Property Value Loss
Significant decrease in market value, disclosure requirements that scare buyers, difficulty obtaining insurance coverage.
Ongoing Damage
Water damage worsens exponentially over time, with repair costs doubling every 6-12 months without remediation.
Insurance Complications
Denied claims, policy cancellations, dramatically increased premiums, and mandatory disclosure requirements for future coverage.
Interior Destruction
Ruined flooring, destroyed drywall, damaged electrical systems, HVAC contamination, and loss of personal belongings and furnishings.
Warning Signs of Water Intrusion
- Water stains on ceilings or walls
- Musty odors in closets or rooms
- Peeling paint or bubbling wallpaper
- Warped or buckling flooring
- Visible mold or mildew growth
- Damp carpets or baseboards
- Condensation on windows
- Efflorescence (white powder) on concrete
- Standing water in crawlspace
- Increased water bills without explanation
Don't Wait: Water damage accelerates quickly in Charleston's humid climate. Early detection and legal action can save you tens of thousands of dollars.
Have You Experienced Water Intrusion or Flooding?
If your Charleston property has suffered water damage due to construction defects, you may be entitled to significant compensation for repairs, mold remediation, property damage, and diminished value. Our network of construction defect attorneys has recovered millions for Lowcountry homeowners.
Retail & Shopping Centers
HVAC failures, roofing defects, structural issues, ADA compliance problems, and water intrusion affecting business operations.
- Climate control system failures
- Roof membrane defects
- Parking lot drainage issues
- Accessibility compliance failures
Office Buildings
Elevator malfunctions, electrical system defects, ventilation problems, and building envelope failures impacting tenant safety.
- Elevator safety violations
- Power distribution failures
- Indoor air quality issues
- Window and curtain wall leaks
Industrial & Warehouse
Foundation settling, structural steel defects, loading dock problems, and fire safety system failures in industrial facilities.
- Concrete slab cracking
- Structural steel corrosion
- Loading dock hydraulic failures
- Sprinkler system defects
Restaurants & Hospitality
Kitchen ventilation defects, grease trap failures, flooring issues, and code compliance problems affecting health permits.
- Hood and exhaust system failures
- Grease management system defects
- Non-slip flooring failures
- Health code violations
Hotels & Resorts
Charleston's tourism industry faces unique defect challenges including water damage, HVAC failures, balcony defects, and accessibility issues.
- Balcony and railing failures
- Water intrusion in guest rooms
- Pool and spa system defects
- ADA compliance violations
Multi-Family & Condominiums
Apartment complexes and condominium buildings with shared infrastructure defects, common area failures, and unit-specific issues.
- Building envelope water intrusion
- Common area structural defects
- Shared plumbing and electrical failures
- Parking garage deterioration
Commercial Defects Can Devastate Your Business
Commercial construction defects don't just cost money to repair - they disrupt operations, violate building codes, and can force temporary closures. Get experienced legal representation to recover all damages.
Evaluate Your Commercial Property
Why You Need an Experienced Construction Defect Attorney
Construction defect cases are complex and require specialized legal experience. We connect you with Charleston-based attorneys who specialize exclusively in construction defect litigation. These experienced lawyers understand the complexities of South Carolina construction law and have the experience to take on contractors, builders, and insurance companies.
Act Quickly
South Carolina law gives you limited time to file construction defect claims. Waiting too long can bar your case permanently.
Experienced Representation
Construction companies have experienced legal teams. You need an attorney who understands building codes, engineering, and defect litigation.
Maximize Recovery
Experienced construction defect attorneys know how to identify all damages and pursue maximum compensation for repairs, lost value, and other costs.
Level the Playing Field
Don't face well-funded contractors and insurance companies alone. Get experienced legal representation to protect your rights.
Evidence Preservation
Properly documenting defects, preserving evidence, and hiring qualified inspectors is critical. Attorneys ensure nothing is missed or destroyed.
Negotiation Power
Experienced construction defect attorneys achieve significantly higher settlements through proven negotiation strategies and litigation readiness.
When Construction Defects Appear
Understanding when defects typically manifest helps identify liability and strengthen your case
Immediate Defects
Poor workmanship issues become apparent quickly after construction completion.
- Plumbing leaks
- Electrical failures
- Window/door malfunctions
Emerging Issues
Material defects and design flaws start to show as the building settles and weathers.
- Foundation settling
- Roofing problems
- HVAC system failures
Serious Defects
Major structural and design defects become evident, often requiring extensive repairs.
- Structural movement
- Water infiltration
- Foundation cracks
Statute Deadline
Critical: South Carolina's 8-year statute of limitations expires. Act now if you've discovered defects.
Serving All of Charleston County and Beyond
We connect property owners throughout the Lowcountry with experienced construction defect attorneys
Charleston
Historic downtown, West Ashley, James Island, and surrounding neighborhoods
Mount Pleasant
Including Old Village, Park West, and Daniel Island communities
Summerville
The Flowertown and surrounding Dorchester County areas
North Charleston
Industrial, residential, and commercial properties throughout the area
Folly Beach
Coastal properties facing unique construction challenges
Isle of Palms
Beachfront homes and condominiums
Ready to Get the Compensation You Deserve?
Don't wait until it's too late. Construction defect claims have strict time limits in South Carolina. Get your free case evaluation today.