Why Construction Cases Are Expert-Intensive
Construction defect litigation is among the most expert-intensive areas of civil practice. A single residential case may require four to eight different expert disciplines; large commercial cases can require a dozen or more.
The construction industry’s ongoing labor shortage and increased pace of development are generating new waves of defect claims.
Core Expert Disciplines
Structural engineers assess load-bearing components. Building envelope consultants specialize in water intrusion systems. Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineers address building systems.
Water intrusion claims are the single most common category of construction defect litigation.
Selecting the Right Expert Team
Effective expert selection requires building a team whose collective expertise covers all disputed issues without gaps or contradictions.
Attorneys should consider geographic familiarity. An expert who has inspected hundreds of buildings in the local market will be more credible to a local jury.
Timing matters. Retaining experts early — ideally before the complaint is filed — allows for thorough investigation and stronger opinions.