Is Your Dream Home Built on a Flawed Foundation? Understanding Defective Construction in Alabama and Florida

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When you purchase or build your dream home, the last thing you expect is to uncover cracks in the foundation—literally or figuratively. Unfortunately, many homeowners in Alabama and Florida encounter construction defects that can lead to costly repairs, health risks, and legal disputes. These issues may not be immediately visible, but they can quickly escalate if not addressed. At More2You, we help clients recognize and respond to defective construction issues efficiently and effectively.

Defective Construction in Alabama

What is Defective Construction?

Defective construction refers to any issue stemming from poor workmanship, substandard materials, or inadequate design. These defects can surface in both residential and commercial properties and may involve:

  • Structural damage, including sagging roofs, cracked foundations, or misaligned walls
  • Water intrusion due to improper waterproofing or drainage
  • Faulty electrical or plumbing systems that pose safety risks
  • Use of unsafe or deteriorating building materials
  • Incomplete or non-code-compliant work

These problems may become evident immediately after occupancy or may take years to manifest. Regardless of when they appear, they can significantly affect your property’s value and livability.

Homeowners in Alabama have specific timeframes and procedures for filing construction defect claims. Generally, you have two years from the date the defect was discovered to initiate legal action. Additionally, Alabama enforces a statute of repose, which bars claims filed more than seven years after the substantial completion of the construction project—regardless of when the defect was discovered.

Unlike some states, Alabama does not require homeowners to give contractors a chance to fix the issue before pursuing legal action. This allows property owners to act quickly when serious construction problems emerge.

Florida’s laws differ in several ways. Homeowners typically have four years from the date the defect is discovered to file a claim. However, Florida also imposes a statute of repose, which has recently been shortened to seven years. This time limit starts from the earliest of either the date of completion, the issuance of a certificate of occupancy, or the date the construction was abandoned.

Florida law also includes a “right to cure” provision. Before filing a lawsuit, homeowners must follow a pre-suit process that gives the contractor or builder the opportunity to inspect and repair the defect. This process is designed to resolve disputes more quickly and avoid lengthy litigation when possible.

Common Defective Construction Issues in the Southeast

Homeowners in Alabama and Florida face unique regional challenges. Both states experience high humidity, hurricanes, and frequent heavy rains—all of which can expose or worsen construction flaws. Additionally, rapid growth and development in these states often lead to corner-cutting by inexperienced or overburdened builders, increasing the risk of defective construction.

Examples of common issues include foundation settling on improperly prepared soil, roof failures due to inadequate fastening in high-wind zones, and water damage from poor sealing and drainage systems.

How More2You Can Help

If you suspect your home or commercial property has construction defects, you need a legal team that understands both the construction industry and the specific laws of your state. At More2You, our experienced attorneys provide:

  • Detailed assessments of your case, including analysis of contracts, inspection reports, and expert evaluations
  • Clear guidance on timelines, documentation, and the best course of action based on your specific circumstances
  • Aggressive representation in court or in negotiations to ensure your property is repaired and your damages are recovered

We focus on protecting your investment and ensuring that builders and contractors are held accountable for their work.

Conclusion

Your home should be a place of comfort, not a source of stress. Defective construction can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. If you’re dealing with structural issues, water damage, or other building flaws in Alabama or Florida, More2You is here to help. Our team is committed to delivering results and restoring peace of mind. Contact us today to discuss your legal options and take the first step toward resolving your construction concerns.