My Contractor Did Shoddy Work — What Can I Do?

What Legally Constitutes Defective Workmanship?

California courts apply a professional standard: was the work performed with the skill and care expected of a reasonably competent contractor in that trade? Work that falls below this standard — regardless of intent — is legally defective. Common examples include roofing that leaks within a normal service period, plumbing connections that fail under normal pressure, electrical work that fails inspection, and tile work that cracks or releases within a year of installation.

Latent vs. Patent Defects — Why the Distinction Matters

A patent defect is visible and obvious. The statute of limitations is generally 3 years from discovery. A latent defect is hidden — improperly installed plumbing in walls, undersized structural members. California gives you 10 years from substantial completion to pursue latent defect claims.

Step 1 — Get an Independent Inspection

Retain an independent licensed professional to inspect the work and provide a written report. This transforms your dispute from your word against the contractor’s into a professional expert opinion. It is the foundation of your case.

Step 2 — Document What the Contract Promised

Pull your original contract, plans, and specifications. Identify every promise the contractor made about materials, methods, and standards. Document deviations with photographs comparing what was specified to what was delivered.

Step 3 — Calculate Your Damages

Get written bids from licensed contractors to repair or redo the defective work. Your damages are generally the cost to repair defects to the standard originally promised, plus any consequential damage caused by the defects.