Commission Announces Enhanced Post-Inspection Reporting Requirements
Streamlined reporting process gathers dispute information electronically |
(GRAPEVINE, TEXAS) — The Texas Residential Construction Commission today released details of a new inspection reporting requirement for builders and remodelers designed to provide better information to the commission and consumers about construction-related disputes.
When a homeowner and a builder/remodeler disagree about alleged defects in a home or remodeling project, either party can ask the commission to provide a neutral, technical review of those issues. These reports verify the existence or non-existence of defects and also include the inspector’s recommendations on how to repair any defects confirmed, if a repair can be affected. The results of such state-sponsored inspections hold legal weight and can be used by either party to bolster their case should it be necessary to go to court or an arbitrator to settle the dispute.
The builder/remodeler involved in an inspection is required to provide the commission a follow-up report on what actions they have taken to repair the home or otherwise settle the issues with the homeowner. They must also detail any offers made that have not been accepted by the homeowner. This notification to the commission must be provided by the builder/remodeler no later than 45 days after the final inspection report is issued. They are also required to file a final report with the commission when all outstanding disputes have been resolved. Builders and remodelers involved in state-sponsored inspections since January 2006 are required to provide these follow-up reports.
Commission Executive Director Duane Waddill, in comments at the Sunbelt Builders Show here today, said all builders/remodelers involved in inspections are now prompted to complete the follow-up form online before they register homes or renew their registration.
“This system will provide the commission with better information about disputes and allow us to more efficiently and effectively assist in resolving disputes,” Waddill said.
The commission was created two sessions ago to register builders/remodelers and their projects, operate an inspection process to evaluate alleged home defects and provide a fair, impartial and balanced review for both the homeowner and the builder/remodeler. The warranties and performance standards, and the commission’s inspection process are designed to help both parties achieve a common goal: a reliable, well-built home.
For more information about commission rules or new legislative initiatives, go to www.texasrcc.org or call 877-651-TRCC (8722).
--###--
|
