Builder Didnt Do It

Expert, localized Los Angeles answers provided by Heather Roy

Builder Didnt Do It
	Dear Edith: We recently had a house built. Before our closing we did a walk-through with the builder and our agent. The builder filled out a "Final Inspection before Possession" sheet. This list contains any things that did not get finished, to be taken care of within 30 days after closing. Seven things haven't been taken care of. Also, we need drywall repair work as there is some separation where the walls and ceiling meet. We want these things done soon as due to unfortunate circumstances we are selling our home. We feel that because the builder knows this (as does our agent) that is why he has not done these things. Do you have any suggestions? And can we get our money back for a few extras they didn't do?

	Answer : For problems that add up to only a few thousand dollars, small claims court is an excellent resource. You can represent yourselves at little cost and hear what a judge has to say. The court can't order your builder to do specific things, so add in a contractor's estimate for fixing the remaining items on that punch list, and request a judgment for the total amount. Often that's enough to move the other party to action.
	Edith Originally published on May 29, 2005

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