The contractor needs to understand the complexities of Green Building before embarking on this type of undertaking. Because the codes and regulations can be vastly different, the company can be in danger of winding up in a libelous situation.

Factors Cited in Green Construction Liability Claims

Expectations of the Buyer

Many potential customers want the square footage and high-end finishes, which they would get in a traditionally built house. Green Builds usually have significantly less square footage with the emphasis on improved functionality rather than more space. The high-end finishes of natural materials will probably be replaced by man made materials.

The contractor needs to educate the consumer on what to expect the final product to look like. Buyers must know that to go “green” entails sacrificing some of the space and amenities that they are used to. Contractors need to show in dollars and cents what will be saved on utility costs and improved health. Of course, the low impact on the environment has to be stressed. Furthermore, a client with realistic expectations will probably not move towards litigation, unlike a customer with unrealistic expectations.

Sub-Standard Products

Meeting the requirements of Green Construction entails understanding the new variety of supplies that are specific to that type of build. If you know individuals, who do Green Builds, they could be a good source of information. A business that sells Green Merchandize may also give you knowledgeable advice or even a manufacturing representative.

Regulations

The codes and rules for your community, state or federal government may be different from those for traditionally built housing. The bidding practices may also be dissimilar when competing for a green project.

Your local building agency can tell you about any regulations specific to Green Building that you need to follow. From the local person, make sure you get a contact number for the state entity that you need to talk to and find out, who to speak to on a federal level. Finally, ask about any training/educational info that is available.

Unattainable Guarantees

To get the client to sign on the dotted line, contractors raise the expectations of the customers. What’s needed in the negotiation is straight talk. Green Construction is a new frontier for many contractors. Before they sign a contract, builders need to consult with a lawyer well versed in “Green Construction” to avoid any future litigation.

Falsification

“Green Builds” come with an extensive list of standards for the contractor to meet specs. On top of that, most buyers are very demanding. Making promises to the client that you cannot keep spells trouble, possibly legal and financial.

What Does Green Building Entail

Energy Efficiency

*High grade insulation

*Efficient heating and cooling systems and devices

*Non Wasteful Water utilization

*Reduced water use through smart technology devices and equipment.

*Use of arid landscape techniques and plants

*Water Resources Preservation

*Employ environmentally friendly choices for materials and methods.

*Engineered wood or wood alternatives

*Recovered contracting supplies

*Wood yielded through limited resource management

*Long-lasting materials

Inside The Structure

*Effective HVAC equipment

*Formaldehyde free finishes

*Non allergen products

*Products with minimum off-gassing

* Minimum unstable substances

Site Design

* Make available to the customer information on how to operate equipment or maintain the structure.

*Do not allow equipment or trucks to disturb the environment unnecessarily.

*Adopt business practices from other industries to save resources and money.

Get The Know How To Know How To Do Green Building

Information about Green Construction is scattered and sometimes cost money. Wikipedia has a free overview of the Green Construction industry. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) has developed a set of standards that are widely used in the construction industry. It can be accessed through the United States Green Building Council

To get any in-depth info from LEED, you need to go through one of their certification programs. If you decided to do that, the cost is tax deductible. The National Association of Home Builders has a Green Tool on its website that is a spreadsheet that can be used to evaluate a green project. To utilize this, you must join NAHB. Again the cost of membership is tax deductible.

Sub-Contractors

You need to familiarize your sub-contractors with what is expected of their work on a Green Build. That means giving them the specifics on the rules and materials utilized. You can also find a sub-contractor, who is well versed in Green Work.

Contact Your Insurance Agent

Your insurance agent deals with liability claims routinely. He or she has a reservoir of information and contacts that could help you avoid litigation. Ask your agent for any suggestions that she or he might have. Become knowledgeable about green construction, so you don’t leave your business exposed to high risk.

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