The first edition of this book was published almost ten years ago to provide a useful guide on construction defect law in the United States. The goal was to provide a useful analytical framework and starting point for research of specific issues confronting practitioners and their clients. The editors of the current edition have endeavored to achieve that same goal here.


The three characteristics of the first edition remain unchanged. First, the book is organized to allow the reader to identify a construction defect issue and then follow the trail to meaningful discussion and research in several ways--by type of construction defect, by party, by type of claim, and by theory of liability or defense. Second, it provides guidance in specific areas of concern, such as insurance, limitations defenses, damages, dispute resolution, and preparing and presenting a case. Finally, the authors were selected for their expertise in the subject matters covered by their chapters, as well as for the diversity of the clients they represent.


The law on construction defects is dynamic and continually evolving. New statutes and court decisions frequently change the landscape. This book gives the readers a representative sampling of these and many other issues, along with references that will guide them with information about a jurisdiction of interest.