Do you offer a free consultation for startups?

Yes. The Rhodes Law Firm offers a free initial consultation — no obligation, no pressure.

What legal services do you offer for startups and entrepreneurs?

We offer corporate formation, contract drafting, outside general counsel, IP protection, regulatory compliance, and investor agreement support for startups in Louisiana and nationally.

Do you handle divorce and child custody cases in Louisiana?

Yes. The Rhodes Law Firm provides compassionate family law representation including divorce, legal separation, child custody, child support, spousal support, and adoption throughout Louisiana.

How much does a family law attorney cost in New Orleans?

The Rhodes Law Firm offers a free initial consultation so you can understand your options before making any financial commitment. Contact us at (504) 475-0975 to get started.

Where is The Rhodes Law Firm located?

The firm is based in New Orleans, Louisiana and serves clients statewide and nationally.

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What are construction defects in condominiums?

Construction defects are deficiencies in the design, materials, or workmanship of a condominium building that result in damage or impaired function. Common defects include: water intrusion through roofs, windows, walls, and foundations; structural deficiencies; HVAC system failures; plumbing and electrical code violations; inadequate fire protection systems; and improper waterproofing.

Who is responsible for construction defects in a Louisiana condo?

Potentially responsible parties include: the developer/sponsor (who warranted the building's condition); the general contractor (for workmanship defects); design professionals (architects, engineers) for design defects; subcontractors for specific trade defects; and material manufacturers for product defects. Louisiana law imposes a 10-year structural warranty (la. C.C. Art. 2762) and other warranty obligations on builders.

What is the 10-year builder's warranty in Louisiana?

Louisiana Civil Code Article 2762 provides that a building contractor (entrepreneur) is liable for defects in a building that result in its ruin (total or partial) for 10 years from delivery. This warranty applies to the structure itself. Louisiana's New Home Warranty Act (La. R.S. 9:3141 et seq.) provides additional, shorter warranties for new residential construction. These warranties are important tools in construction defect claims.

Does the condo association or individual owners pursue construction defect claims?

Typically the association has standing to pursue claims for defects in common elements (structure, roof, foundation, common areas), while individual owners pursue claims for defects within their units. In a new condominium, the developer's transition of control to the owner-elected board typically triggers the association's authority to pursue developer warranty claims. Timing of the transition and prompt inspection of common elements is critical.

What is a developer transition in a condominium?

Developer transition (or turnover) is the process by which control of the condominium association passes from the developer to unit owner-elected board members. Louisiana's Condominium Act establishes transition triggers based on percentage of units sold. At transition, the developer must turn over records, reserves, and control. Transition disputes — over reserve fund adequacy, document completeness, and construction defects — are common and should be handled with legal counsel.

What is the statute of limitations for construction defect claims?

In Louisiana, the 10-year warranty under Civil Code Art. 2762 runs from acceptance (delivery) of the building. The New Home Warranty Act has shorter periods for specific types of defects. Tort claims based on contractor negligence must be filed within 1 year of discovery under Louisiana law. Given the overlap of multiple prescriptive periods, consulting an attorney promptly after discovering a defect is essential.

What damages are available in a condo construction defect case?

Recoverable damages include: cost of repair or remediation; diminution in unit or building value; consequential damages (property damage caused by the defect — water damage to furniture, belongings); loss of use; expert fees and investigation costs; and attorney's fees under some warranty provisions or contract terms.

Condo Law

Condo Construction Defect Claims — Louisiana

Developer Liability · Water Intrusion · Structural Issues · 10-Year Warranty

Louisiana condominiums are subject to a 10-year structural warranty under Civil Code Art. 2762, along with additional warranty obligations under the New Home Warranty Act (La. R.S. 9:3141 et seq.). Common defects include water intrusion, structural deficiencies, and HVAC failures. Associations have standing to pursue claims for common element defects; individual owners pursue unit-specific defect claims. Timing is critical — prescriptive periods vary. Free consultation: (504) 475-0975.

Written & Reviewed By

Jonathan M. Rhodes

Attorney at Law — The Rhodes Law Firm

Practice Areas: Condominium Law — Construction Defects · Last Updated: September 30, 2026

Serving: Orleans Parish, Jefferson Parish, St. Charles Parish, Louisiana

Speak With a Condo Construction Defect Attorney

Jonathan M. Rhodes represents associations and owners in Louisiana construction defect claims. Free consultation.

Schedule a Consultation (504) 475-0975

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Condo Construction Defects in Louisiana — FAQ

Construction Defect Issue? We Can Help.

Prescriptive periods are short. Free consultation for associations and unit owners.

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