SB1470

Start fixing our draconian construction defect legal regime

State: California

Status: Pending 🕒

Formal Title: An act to amend Sections 895, 896, 897, 916, 921, 926, 927, 933, 934, and 945.5 of the Civil Code, relating to construction defects.

Summary: Amends existing laws to modify the standards for determining liability in construction defect cases for residential units. It clarifies that a deficiency must materially affect habitability or usefulness, and result from failing to meet the industry's standard of care. The bill introduces a role for a special inspector in overseeing repair works and requires the builder to secure a building permit for such repairs. It also allows builders to obtain a release or waiver upon repair completion and mandates local authorities to issue building permits within 30 days. Moreover, it adds to the affirmative defenses available to builders in construction defect cases, including compliance with building permits and special inspector approval.

Main sponsors: Steve Glazer

Legislative text: https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202320240SB1470