Construction litigation partner Brenda Radmacher explored how material shortages are impacting the construction industry, including potential problems down the road. In an interview with Construction Dive, a daily industry newsletter, Radmacher warned that as construction materials grow scarce – and therefore, more costly – tensions between contractors and suppliers is increasing, resulting in breach of contract claims and the potential for construction defects. She suggests contractors worried about that possibility should be assiduously recording every change in materials or schedule, and ensuring those changes are approved by all parties to a project.
“Document, document, document,” said Radmacher, who is based in Akerman’s Los Angeles office. “[Showing] the reasonable steps taken to ensure timely delivery and anticipating issues will be helpful and persuasive in defending construction defect claims.”