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Construction Defect Traps That Can Cost Your HOAs

Raymond Dickey

Construction Defect Traps That Can Cost Your HOAs

Before You “Handle It Yourself”!

Video also available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/fnM8g2zEUkQ

Construction defects aren’t just “a few broken roof tiles.” In this Florida + South Carolina-focused conversation, two community association attorneys get practical about what really happens after turnover— when something isn’t working, water starts showing up where it shouldn’t, or a “quick fix” turns into a community-wide financial problem.

Panel:

Adam Clarkson, Esq. • Clarkson McAlonis & O’Connor, P.C. • aclarkson@cmolawpc.com • www.cmolawpc.com

Cory Kravit, Esq. • Kovitz Shifrin Nesbit • ckravit@ksnlaw.com • www.ksnlaw.com

We dig into the stuff boards and managers don’t always hear until it’s too late:

  • What “construction defect” usually means vs. what it actually means (and what isn’t a defect)
  • The real difference between defects, warranties, and maintenance failures—and why it matters
  • The clock issues boards underestimate: statute of limitations vs. statute of repose (and how delays happen)
  • Florida’s Chapter 558 process (the “558 letter”) and why notice/detail matters
  • A major board mistake: bringing in experts without legal counsel—and how privilege/work product changes everything
  • What to collect at turnover: plans, manuals, warranties, system docs—because “it disappears”
  • When inspections are truly necessary (especially for larger buildings), what it can cost, and why skipping it can become a fiduciary problem
  • How attorneys get paid in defect cases: hourly, contingency, and hybrid—and what boards should consider
  • Red flags: releases/waivers, “don’t call a lawyer” advice, and the slow-motion way claims get lost

If you’re a manager or board member trying to protect your community’s future budget (and avoid being the board everyone blames later), this is the “deep dive” version—not the quick article summary.

If you are need for CEUs go to: Register for Construction Defect Traps That Can Cost Your HOAs - FL - SC on Jan 14, 2026 9:00 AM EST at:https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/821766647061919838

Hosted by AssociationHelpNow® | Practical insights for managers and boards who live this every day. This content does not constitute professional advice and may have been edited.

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