Buying a new home or commercial building in Denver should come with peace of mind—not unexpected repairs or legal headaches. Unfortunately, even brand-new construction can come with serious hidden issues. These problems, known as construction defects, often don’t reveal themselves until months—or even years—after move-in. Whether you’re a homeowner, investor, or HOA board member, recognizing the early warning signs of construction defects can help you protect your investment.
If you notice any of the signs below, it may be time to consult a Denver construction defect lawyer to evaluate your rights and explore your legal options.
1. Cracks in Walls, Ceilings, or Foundations
One of the most common and visible signs of a construction defect is cracking in drywall, ceilings, or even the concrete foundation. While small cracks can result from natural settling, larger or rapidly growing cracks may point to a serious structural flaw.
In Denver, where soil movement and freeze-thaw cycles are common, poorly designed or constructed foundations may shift, leading to instability. If left unaddressed, this can cause structural failure or create long-term safety concerns. A structural engineer can assess the problem, but if it’s linked to poor construction practices, a Denver construction defect lawyer can help you pursue legal remedies.
2. Water Intrusion or Mold Growth
Water is one of the most damaging elements to any structure. If you’re seeing:
- Water stains on ceilings or walls
- Puddles near baseboards after rain
- Musty smells or visible mold
…you may be dealing with a building envelope defect. This typically involves improper flashing, roof installation, or window sealing.
In new builds, water intrusion is often caused by rushed construction timelines or failure to follow code. If mold begins to form, the issue becomes not just structural, but a health risk. You may have a valid claim if poor workmanship or substandard materials are to blame.
3. Uneven Floors or Sloping Rooms
Have you noticed floors that aren’t level, or doors that swing open by themselves? These could be early signs of foundation movement, poor grading, or framing errors.
In Denver, sloping floors in new construction may be linked to inadequate support beams or soil-related issues that were ignored during site preparation. A licensed inspector can confirm the cause, but if the builder failed to account for known site risks, legal action may be appropriate.
4. Roof Leaks or Ice Dams
Your roof is your first line of defense, especially in Denver’s snowy winters. If you’re seeing:
- Roof leaks after snowmelt or rain
- Water spots on top floors or attics
- Ice dams forming at the eaves
…it’s possible the roof was improperly installed or poorly insulated.
New homes should not suffer from roofing failures within the first few years. If your builder used substandard materials, failed to install vapor barriers, or didn’t follow local code, it could constitute a breach of warranty or negligence. A Denver construction defect lawyer can help you determine if the roofing issues rise to the level of a legal claim.
5. HVAC, Electrical, or Plumbing Failures
Modern construction includes complex systems that must be installed correctly to work safely. Warning signs of construction defects may include:
- Frequent power outages or flickering lights
- HVAC systems that struggle to heat or cool
- Leaky pipes or water pressure issues
In some cases, builders cut corners or hire unlicensed subcontractors, leading to dangerous or defective installations. These types of defects may violate building codes or create fire and flood hazards.
6. Doors and Windows That Don’t Close Properly
Do your windows stick? Do your doors not align with their frames? While this could be a minor issue, it might also signal structural shifting or improper framing.
In newly constructed homes, misaligned doors and windows are not “normal.” They often point to systemic issues in construction that may worsen over time. These signs, especially when combined with cracks or sloping floors, should not be ignored.
7. Poor Drainage Around the Property
Improper site grading can lead to serious drainage issues that affect your home’s foundation, landscaping, and even the interior. If rainwater pools near the house or flows toward the foundation rather than away from it, you may have a defective grading plan.
Over time, poor drainage can erode soil, flood basements, and damage structural components. Builders have a responsibility to prepare the site correctly and if they don’t, they could be held accountable for the resulting damage.
8. Loose or Noisy Floors, Stairs, or Railings
In new builds, everything should feel tight, secure, and solid. If you’re noticing:
- Squeaky or bouncy floors
- Wobbly staircases
- Loose balcony or deck railings
…it may be a sign that your home was not properly constructed. These are often caused by improper fastening, cheap materials, or failure to meet safety codes all of which may give rise to a construction defect claim.
When Should You Contact a Denver Construction Defect Lawyer?
If any of the signs above apply to your new home or commercial building, don’t assume it’s your responsibility to fix. Builders, contractors, and developers can be held liable for construction defects especially when the issues are due to negligence, code violations, or breach of warranty.
A qualified Denver construction defect lawyer can help you:
- Investigate the source of the defect
- Preserve evidence before repairs are made
- Negotiate with builders or insurance companies
- File a legal claim for repairs or damages
Time is critical. In Colorado, construction defect claims are subject to strict deadlines, including a statute of limitations and a statute of repose. An experienced attorney can make sure you don’t miss these important legal timeframes.
Conclusion: Don’t Ignore the Warning Signs
Construction defects can be costly, frustrating, and even dangerous. As a property owner in Denver, you have the right to expect safe and sound construction especially in a brand-new build. If something feels off in your home, trust your instincts and get it evaluated.
At Baker Law Group, our Denver construction defect lawyers help homeowners, investors, and HOAs protect their properties and hold negligent builders accountable. We’re here to guide you through the legal process with clarity, experience, and determination.