Construction Concerns with Your New Home?

If you’re concerned about your new home’s safety, you are not alone. Homeowners across the nation have reported numerous construction-related concerns with many of the leading builders’ new homes. Bell Legal Group’s construction defect attorneys investigate workmanship and safety issues to help homeowners recover costs and hold home builders accountable.

The following are some of the nation’s leading home builders:

D.R. Horton
Lennar
Pulte
NVR, or RyanHomes
Meritage Homes

We understand purchasing a home is a major investment for many families, including yours. You expect America’s largest home builders to produce a safe, structurally sound home that is free of defects. Instead, general contractors, material manufacturers, or other professionals may complete subpar work, use low-quality materials, or ignore building codes, putting you and your family at risk.

If you have discovered issues with your new home that point to significant flaws or structural instability, you may be able to pursue construction defect claims against the builder or others.

Tell us your story! We are here to help. Use the form to schedule a case evaluation, call us at (843) 438-7480, or contact us online.

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Signs of Potential Construction Defects

Many visible issues can point to flawed construction and signal where shortcuts, poor workmanship, insufficient materials, or other cost-saving measures have compromised a home’s structural integrity, systems, or value.

Concerns that homeowners have previously alleged include:

Subpar finish work (low-quality craftsmanship that fails to meet industry standards)
Exposed wood on roofs
Improperly installed door frames
Drainage issues leading to flooding
Defects in foundations, concrete, siding, framing, windows, doors, and veneers
Improper use of I-joists (structural beams that can cause sagging floors, insect damage, sticking doors, or wall cracks when defective)
Defective flashing (protective material used for waterproofing where components meet, often where the roof meets walls)
Defective siding
Defective weather-resistant barriers and cladding (protective coverings to manage moisture, sound, and energy)

If you have been impacted by these or other potential construction defects in your new home, contact the trial attorneys at Bell Legal Group.

What qualifies as a construction defect versus normal wear?

A construction defect is a problem in design, materials, or workmanship that causes damage or safety risks, such as foundation cracks, faulty wiring, or water intrusion. Normal wear refers to cosmetic issues and expected deterioration due to everyday use. Wear-and-tear typically does not cause consequential damages or functional loss, but construction defects frequently do.

Recent Litigation Against Home Builders

Many leading home builder companies face class-action lawsuits for producing faulty homes with various construction issues. Recent examples include:

South Carolina Settlement
In 2024, D.R. Horton, along with subcontractors and suppliers, agreed to a $16.1 million settlement in a class-action lawsuit involving more than 200 homes in Easley, South Carolina. Homeowners alleged various construction defects, including issues with roofs, I-joists, flashing, siding, and weather-resistant barriers, leading to water intrusion concerns.

Louisiana Class Action Lawsuit
Homeowners in Louisiana initiated a class-action lawsuit against D.R.Horton, Inc. – Gulf Coast, citing defective design and construction in new residential homes. Reported issues included excessive moisture and humidity levels, structural defects, and ineffective HVAC systems. The lawsuit also alleged inadequate responses to warranty claims and mandatory use of specific HVAC services, leading to ongoing damages for homeowners.

Midlands, South Carolina Lawsuits
As of January 2025, D.R. Horton is facing approximately 60 lawsuits in the Midlands region of South Carolina. The allegations involve various construction defects, such as issues with roofs, I-joists, flashing, siding, and weather-resistant barriers, with some defects reportedly causing water intrusion.

How Do I Start a Construction Defect Claim?

If you were impacted by a potential construction defect and you’re interested in exploring a claim, speak to the attorneys at Bell Legal Group today. We want to hear your story — contact us:

Submit the form above
Contact us online
Call us at (843) 438-7480

Frequently Asked Questions About New Home Construction Defects

Why should I be concerned about a new home build?

New homes may have defects due to tight construction schedules, human error, or a lack of quality control during the building process. Contractors may also use inexperienced labor or fail to meet building code standards.

Should I get a home inspection even if my new home passed a municipal inspection?

Yes. Municipal inspections focus on meeting minimum code requirements and may not catch all potential defects. A private home inspection is more thorough and covers areas like functionality, safety, and craftsmanship.

Do I have to use the builder’s warranty or repair program first?

Generally, you must first exhaust the warranty or repair program before you may pursue a lawsuit against a home builder. An attorney can review the warranty and other contracts to help you understand the builder’s obligations and your responsibilities.

How much time do I have to sue a home builder for construction defects?

Deadlines for lawsuits against home builders vary by state and jurisdiction. It’s best to discuss deadlines with an attorney who can review the situation and any contractual obligations.

What evidence helps prove faulty new homes?

An independent inspection is key to formally documenting defects in new homes. Homeowners can also compile evidence by documenting issues, like cracks, water stains, and mold, through photos, videos, and notes.

Will making temporary repairs hurt my claim?

A temporary repair may be necessary to prevent further damage or loss. Most fixes to protect your property will not typically hurt your construction defect claim, but an attorney can help if you’re uncertain. Before fixing, document the damage, and retain any of the building materials for inspection.

J. Edward Bell III

Founder and Senior Partner

South Carolina attorney Ed Bell founded Bell Legal Group more than 40 years ago. With offices in Georgetown, SC, and Raleigh, NC, he focuses his practice on a variety of cases such as medical malpractice, personal injury, automobile safety and defects, product liability, environmental law, police misconduct, and prison abuse.

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