Wilmington Roof Defects Lawyer

A building’s roof is its front line of defense against the elements. Flaws in a roof’s design, construction, or maintenance can result in serious damage to the rest of the structure. If a building you own has suffered damage due to a defective roof, you may have grounds for a civil lawsuit against the liable party. To get the compensation you deserve for a building defect, you’ll need the representation of an experienced construction attorney. Our legal team at Wilmington’s Rhine Law Firm, P.C., is nationally recognized for our in-depth understanding of construction law, and will put our knowledge and experience behind your claim. For a free case evaluation, call today.

Common Roof Problems

• Leaking: Leaking may occur for various reasons, such as flashing that was insufficiently fastened when installing a built-up roof. With asphalt roofs, leaks are common when installed without placing proper weather barrier underneath to seal out moisture.
• Blow-offs due to poor wind resistance: Asphalt roofs may have flashing that is not properly attached, creating open seams that are susceptible to blowing off. Granules may not be properly embedded or the weather resistive barrier may be poorly attached.
• Poor workmanship: May include failing to ensure surfaces are cleaned, dried, and primed, leading to failures of the adhesive.
• Failures in Maintenance: Failing to routinely check conditions can make minor issues into major concerns.
• Standing water: Improper design on level roofs or a failure in creating slope may lead to “ponding” of water.
• Puncturing: Certain roofing systems are susceptible to damage from foot traffic that may be averted by creating walking paths.
• Shrinking: Shrinkage may occur within the membrane, along with deterioration and cracking.

Water Damage

In cases of water intrusion, it is first critical to determine the defect that caused the problem. It may be the existing features for diverting water that are dysfunctional or inadequate for high volumes of precipitation. Common examples of water damage include:

• Sinking or cracking within the foundation
• Growth of mold
• Wood that is rotting
• Collapsing walls, floors, or ceiling
• Rusting metal parts
• Interior damage to property & furnishings

Construction Defect Litigation

When pursuing civil action for a construction defect, you’ll need the representation of an experienced construction law attorney. Contracts on larger construction projects may be complex and potentially named defendants may include the design professional, general contractor, subcontractors, manufacturers or sellers of products, and others. This type of litigation can involve multiple areas of law, including tort (negligence), warranty, and contract law.

Negligence

North Carolina law does allow for a claim of negligent construction, but it is subject to the “economic loss rule” which is often applicable in construction-related cases.

North Carolina does not allow for recovery of damages through tort (negligence) actions when the plaintiff’s losses are solely financial. Such actions are to be brought according to the statutes relating to contract law, even if the actions appear as negligent or intentional. Negligence claims must be associated with injuries, or if in cases of a defective product, must cause damages to other property or products.