Construction

Defect (CD)

INTRODUCTION FOR CD

The common technical issue at construction site is

construction defect (CD)
A construction defect is generally defined as a defect in the
design, the construction, and/or in the materials or systems
used on a project that may not be readily observable and
results in a building, structure or component that is not
suitable for the purpose intended.
Therefore, the term construction defect is broader than just
defective construction.
The term construction defect includes both design and
construction defects that result in financial harm to the
owner.

TYPES OF CD

2 types of Construction Defect (CD)

It can be classified as 'Latent Defects' and 'Patent Defects'.
Patent Defects can be detected by the normal inspection or
testing and apparent to naked eye.
However, Latent Defects are hidden and cannot
discoverable by normal examination or testing which will
appear itself after a period of time.

CAUSES OF CD

The common causes of the construction defect :

i. Improper design Poor workmanship that leads to poor
finishing quality
ii. Improper means or methods of installation
iii. Improper or poor quality of the materials
iv. Defective material or poor material performance
v. Missing or inadequate protection from weather or
environmental condition in the construction site.
vi. Soil subsidence, movement and settlement

CONSEQUENCES OF CD

Following are the consequences of defects:

i. Dissatisfied Customer
ii. Extra cost borne by company
iii. Delay in completion
iv. Reduced Productivity.

MITIGATION OF CD

Prevention of design and construction defects can be

accomplished by the implementation of one or all of the
following.
1. Pre-Construction Phase
Plan review, contract and other document reviews are
undertaken to reduce errors and omissions
Design development and pre-construction meeting
attendance are included to identify, discuss and resolve
potential Hot Spots

MITIGATION OF CD

(continue)

2. Construction Phase
Perform critical milestone Quality Assurance inspections
Reinforce the commitment to quality
Create and maintain a QA file with documentation to help
defend against potential claims
Institute a BEST PRACTICES manual for handling hotspot issues
Illustrate a pattern of diligence without showing a
propensity to cost cut

MITIGATION OF CD

(continue)

3. Post Construction Phase

Review & document the accuracy of turnover documents
Assist in the development of operation and maintenance
manuals and schedules/logs
Assist with the orientation, training and support to the
maintenance/building engineer
Site visits/inspections to:
a) Document maintenance log completion
b) Warranty work inspection
c) Document preventative maintenance
d) Document and report on condition and maintenance

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, it is important to remember that design

documents are not perfect and that construction is not
performed perfectly.
Buildings have a finite useful life and wear and tear is
inevitable.
It is essential that a systematic and organized approach be
utilized in order to successfully identify and manage
suspected construction defects.