Proving What Was On Major Rehab Projects
Every remedial project has the potential of causing damage to building components and personal property. It is typical to charge back the contractor for such damage. Remedial projects requiring work on both the common elements and unit interiors present special challenges in documenting such damage. Balcony slab rehab work on a hi-rise where the slab deterioration extends into the unit is a classic example. In order to complete the job, sliders may have to be removed, carpets or tile pulled up, draperies and window coverings removed and furniture moved. At the end of the job, all this needs to be replaced or reinstalled.
Meticulous pre-job documentation is a key in proving contractor charge backs and fending off owner claims of damage. For a balcony slab rehab project such as is described above, the condition of each involved slab, balcony railing, slider, slider track, floor covering, window covering, wall finish and piece of furniture should be documented by photograph and in writing. The contractor and unit owner should sign off on a pre-job statement of condition.
