Updated Sept 2026Every factual claim links to its sourceGeneral information, not legal advice

Free · Source-backed · Updated September 2026

A Homeowner’s Reference to Construction Defects

A free, source-backed guide to spotting, documenting, and resolving building defects.

Or start with what you see:

The core journey

Three steps from problem to resolution

  1. 1

    Spot the defect

    Water intrusion, roof leaks, foundation cracks, mold, EIFS problems, and hazards in older homes.

    Explore defect guides
  2. 2

    Document it

    Inspections, records, and written notices that turn a complaint into evidence.

    Learn how to document
  3. 3

    Resolve it

    Right-to-repair laws, warranties, deadlines, and dispute processes.

    Understand your options

Resolve it

Check your state’s deadline

Many states require written notice and a chance to repair before you can sue. Deadlines can bar a claim entirely.

Check your state

How this reference is written

Each guide is built from primary and authoritative sources: statutes on state legislature sites, court opinions, federal agencies such as EPA, CDC, CPSC, HUD, and the FTC, and standards bodies such as the International Code Council (ICC) and ASTM International. Sources are listed at the end of every page.

Read the editorial standards

  • Every factual claim linked to a source
  • Statutes read on official legislature sites
  • Review date on every page
  • No contractor, inspector, or attorney rankings