Identifying the causes of moisture-related defect litigation in U.S. building construction

In 2007, researchers from the University of Florida collected data from 30 of the largest U.S. sureties and Engineering News Record (ENR) "Top 100" general contracting firms to determine building elements at greatest risk of defect claims. Findings from participants having been involved in more than 17,000 total construction defect claims indicate that 61% of all claims affect general liability policies, and that nearly half (45%) of all construction defect claims occur in multi-family residential construction (multiple dwelling unit buildings). Research further indicates that 69% of all construction defect claims are related to moisture penetration through the building envelope and another 15% are caused by faulty mechanical systems. Data suggests that 53% of all defects originate from poor workmanship, supervision and inspection of trade contractors during construction. A 2008 survey of more than 120 trade contractors indicate that 42% feel they are indeed responsible for moisture related construction defects. The following research documents the causes and effects of moisture-related construction defects, and, best management practices to avoid building mechanical system and envelope claims.