By Patriot Home Service. Published: . Updated: . Published by Patriot Home Service.
Create a dated, factual record of potential workmanship concerns without making unsupported defect claims or disturbing important evidence.
Create a dated, factual record of potential workmanship concerns without making unsupported defect claims or disturbing important evidence.
Photograph the entire area and then a close view with a consistent reference for scale. Record the date, location, weather or operating conditions, and what changed. Write water staining near a window rather than failed flashing until the cause has been determined by a qualified professional. Different causes can produce similar appearances.
Collect the executed agreement, amendments, permits, manufacturer instructions provided for the job, relevant inspection records, payment receipts and dated communications. Keep originals and record document versions. Avoid editing photographs in a way that could obscure context; annotated copies can be useful if the underlying originals remain intact.
Communicate concerns in neutral, specific language and request a written response. Where access is safe and circumstances permit, allow the responsible contractor to explain the work and proposed correction before irreversible changes. Some situations require a qualified inspector, engineer, testing professional or attorney rather than a general construction consultant.
Do not enter an unsafe structure, expose wiring, disturb suspect mold or hazardous materials, or perform destructive opening solely to collect evidence. Obtain emergency help for immediate dangers.
These references provide supporting guidance and further reading. Follow current local requirements and the instructions for your exact products; some publications address particular materials, products or code editions.