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A small leak in a roof can quickly lead to interior damage. Roof construction defects in Jacksonville often involve workmanship, design, or product failures that allow water intrusion. A construction defect attorney from Herman & Wells could help identify viable cases, preserve evidence, and meet required deadlines.
Common roofing issues in Jacksonville include:
On flat or low-slope roofs, problems often involve ponding, membrane seams, penetrations, and faulty scuppers or drains. In multi-unit buildings, shared assemblies and wall transitions can spread leaks between units. Clear photographs, moisture readings, and inspections by licensed professionals help document conditions and distinguish between storm damage and construction errors.
To be successful in your case, you will need evidence to prove that a construction error is the cause of your roof problems in Jacksonville.
Organize a single file with the contract, plans, specifications, product data sheets, change orders, pay apps, punch lists, and all communications with the builder or roofer. Permits, inspection cards, and final approval records show what the authority reviewed. Independent testing, core cuts on low-slope systems, infrared scans, and smoke or water tests can pinpoint failure points. Keep dates of the first leak, weather conditions, repair invoices, and interior repair logs.
For HOAs or condominiums, keep board minutes and vendor emails, as these often track recurring leak reports across units.
Request the Authority Having Jurisdiction inspection notes and any photo documentation tied to the permit. For larger Jacksonville projects that may involve building errors, obtain the Notice of Commencement and contractor/subcontractor lists to confirm who performed the roof, flashing, and sheet-metal scopes. Closeout packets sometimes include warranties and installer certifications—these help define obligations if a claim is made with the manufacturer.
Before filing most construction defect lawsuits in Jacksonville, a written notice describing the alleged defects must be served to give the opposing party a chance to inspect the roof and offer a repair or settlement. The notice must reasonably describe each flaw and allow access for investigation. Failing to complete this inspection can delay your case.
Ask the Jacksonville roofer or insurer to retain removed shingles, underlayment sections, edge metal, and fasteners in labeled bags, as they may provide evidence of building flaws. To establish a basic chain of custody, note who collected each piece, where it is stored, and the date. Preserve interior materials with staining or rust trails that show leak paths.
The state sets both a statute of limitations and a statute of repose for Jacksonville cases involving roof construction defects. Many cases must be filed within four years, with an outside limit of seven years from the earliest date of a temporary certificate of occupancy, certificate of occupancy, certificate of completion, or abandonment of construction. Recent changes have refined the trigger dates, but an attorney could confirm which ones apply to your specific roof project.
Common remedies for flawed roofs in Jacksonville include re-flashing penetrations, replacing defective courses, correcting edge-metal dimensions, and—where necessary—tear-off and replacement of the substrate. After repairs, consider electronic leak detection on low-slope areas or uplift pull tests on steep-slope attachments. Keep post-repair photos during multiple rain events to confirm performance.
Cases involving roof construction defects in Jacksonville are evidence-driven. Early inspections, organized records, and a precise chronology may strengthen a case and reduce disruption during repairs.
Herman & Wells offers free consultations by phone, video, or in person. Our goal is to provide plain-language guidance, consistent case updates, and a plan that aligns with your goals. Contact us today to learn more about how we could help you.
