The Steps Involved in Construction Claims Analysis


Construction claims are among the most complex cases that must be decided in the courtroom. Dozens of parties are often involved in construction claims, and complicated principles of engineering and physics are central issues. Proper construction claims analysis is key to the success of your case. There are a number of phases and steps involved with construction claims analysis, however. It is best to hire a construction claims expert to assist with this intricate process.

First, the facts of the claim must be carefully studied and analyzed. Analyzing the facts of a construction claim can be quite difficult. For example, if the property at issue has collapsed, it may be dangerous to actually visit the site of the claim. Often, pieces of evidence must be tested, and dozens of contracts must be studied. Discussing the claim and construction process with several witnesses is also usually a necessity. A timeline of events is created with all of the facts that are gathered. This process may take several weeks or months to complete.

After the facts have been gathered, the expert witness will begin piecing together what may have gone wrong during construction, as well as which parties may be liable for the resulting damages. For example, perhaps a steel frame was not erected properly, which led to issues with the structural integrity of the building. As the case progresses and approaches trial, it may become necessary to hire multiple expert witnesses to help the parties understand the nature of the claims.

Finally, each party will build its arguments based largely upon the findings of the expert witnesses. At this point, the parties will either compromise and settle their claims, or the case will require a trial to obtain a final resolution. A trial may take several months or longer to schedule.