Construction Quality Assurance: Proactively avoiding costly mistakes through building experts
A new building or a major renovation – that’s a big deal, isn’t it? Such a project needs to be well-planned and, of course, monitored. That’s where a building expert comes into play during the construction phase . He is your key to securing the quality of your project and to steering clear of costly construction defects from the very beginning. We know that many builders can easily underestimate the complexity of construction and the pitfalls that lurk without expert assistance. That’s why it’s so important to bring a professional on board early – it’s not just a safety net, but a truly strategic investment in the long-term value of your property. In this article, we want to show you how you can avoid typical sources of error with professional support and lead your construction project to success. We at Valoon GmbH know the intricacies of the construction industry all too well and have innovative solutions ready to optimize the communication and the defect management for you. Simply contact us for personalized advice – we are happy to help you put your project on solid ground.
- Secures the quality of your construction project and helps avoid costly defects at an early stage.
- Represents a strategic investment in the long-term value of your property.
- Identifies an average of 20-25 defects per new building, including hidden pitfalls.
- Allows for more cost-effective remediation of defects during the construction phase instead of expensive late repairs.
- Represents your interests with construction companies and tradespeople and monitors compliance with standards.
Why a building expert during the construction phase is simply indispensable
Honestly: Having a building expert by your side during the construction phase is a crucial step for top quality and minimal risks. Numbers, for example from the Builders’ Protection Association, speak a clear language: An average of 20-25 defects per new building! This underscores how important an independent expert is. He not only finds the obvious mistakes but also the hidden pitfalls that often lead to really costly follow-up damages years later. Remember: Recognizing and fixing defects early, when everything is still in flux, is significantly cheaper than later, elaborate renovations. Your expert is like a loyal partner who only represents your interests with construction companies and tradespeople. He ensures that everything is carried out according to the construction contract, recognized technical rules, and applicable building regulations. This not only gives you financial security but also a good, calm feeling throughout the construction period. The aforementioned expertise is therefore really a must for any successful construction project.Tasks of the building expert: From planning to warranty, benefit throughout
The role of a building expert by your side during the construction phase is incredibly diverse and runs like a common thread through your entire project. From the initial review of your plans to the monitoring when the warranty period expires – his expertise is invaluable. It’s not just about spotting defects. Rather, he proactively ensures quality, saving you costs and ensuring that all contractual and legal requirements are met. A qualified expert is your technical advisor and your control authority in one – someone who consistently represents your interests as a builder.
- Careful examination of building plans and construction contracts for early fault detection.
- Continuous monitoring of construction execution and documentation of defects.
- Assessment of energy concepts and technical plans for energy efficiency.
- Professional support during construction acceptance for defect identification.
- Identification of late defects before the warranty period expires.
Construction planning and preparation – The foundation for success
Even before the first spade hits the ground, an expert lays the foundation for a successful project. The careful examination of your construction plans and contract is absolutely crucial. He scrutinizes the service description: Is everything complete and technically correct? Are there weaknesses or unclear formulations that could lead to trouble later? Deviations from the original construction contract often go unnoticed until late, leading to costly corrections. Equally important is the early detection of errors in cost calculations. The expert checks whether all necessary services are included and the prices have been fairly calculated, so you’re not surprised by unexpected demands for additional payments. This preventive examination by an expert protects you from nasty financial surprises and secures compliance with the agreed execution.
Monitoring of construction execution – Ensuring everything goes according to plan
When construction actually begins, the continuous monitoring by such an expert is essential. Through regular site visits , he ensures that the work is performed correctly and precisely according to the planning documents and recognized technical standards. Should deviations or potential defects arise, he identifies them early and documents them. The documentation of defects and deviations from building regulations is an important part of his job and the basis for claims against construction companies. By the way, an app for defect management can be a great support here. Another key point is the evaluation of energy concepts and technical planning, for example with heating and plumbing. This ensures that your building is energy-efficient and may even qualify for funding. The expertise of a building expert by your side during the construction phase is truly invaluable here.
Construction acceptance and warranty period – Securely reaching the finish line and beyond
Construction acceptance is a truly critical moment in the construction process. Because from then on, the burden of proof for defects shifts from the contractor to you as the builder, and the warranty period – usually five years – begins. Therefore, the support during the acceptance of the completed building by an expert is absolutely recommended. He checks your new home for visible and hidden defects and ensures that everything that is not right ends up in the acceptance protocol. This is super important to enforce later corrections. Equally important is it to identify defects before the warranty period expires. A final inspection just before this period ends can help uncover defects that may have only become visible later or have been previously overlooked. This way, you can assert your claims in due time. The continuous support by an building expert by your side during the construction phase and even afterward secures your rights sustainably.Critical construction phases: Targeted expert control for maximum safety
We all know: Certain phases in construction are particularly tricky or can have far-reaching consequences if defects remain undetected. An experienced building expert comes into play during the construction phase knows these critical points very well and implements targeted inspections. Such phase-related checks are often cheaper than continuous project supervision, yet still super effective in ensuring quality and avoiding future problems. What’s important is that you inform the expert in good time before these critical phases begin so he can optimally plan his inspections.
Basement/foundation and shell construction – The foundation must be right
The construction of the basement or foundation slab and the subsequent shell construction are absolutely key phases. Mistakes here can have serious impacts on the entire building structure and waterproofing. An expert checks, for instance, whether the waterproofing against moisture is executed correctly, the quality of the concrete, and whether all components have the right dimensions. Particularly, mistakes in basement waterproofing can lead to lasting moisture problems and mold – and remediation is extremely labor-intensive. Also, checking the reinforcement before pouring concrete or inspecting the masonry associations in the shell construction are among his typical tasks. If defects are detected early by an expert, it’s invaluable since later corrections are often only possible with a lot of effort. The construction documentation plays an important role here, of course.
Before plastering and interior plaster – What lies beneath matters
Before the interior and exterior plaster is applied, all important installations and insulation measures should be complete and checked. An expert looks at this phase, for example, checking whether electrical and plumbing installations have been laid correctly, whether window and door connections are tight, and whether the thermal insulation has been installed properly. Imagine there are defects in the vapor barrier or the insulation is inadequate – this can lead to enormous energy losses and moisture damage. Once these areas are plastered, checking and rectifying defects can only be done with much effort and unfortunately also destruction. This is why the inspection by a professional before these tasks is so important to ensure the quality of the building envelope and the technical equipment.
After the 5-year warranty period – A final check for your safety
Even if you have long since moved in and the official construction acceptance is behind you, it is wise as a prudent builder to stay on the ball. The statutory warranty period for construction services is generally five years. It is a clever move to conduct a walkthrough with an expert shortly before this period expires (in this case, after the construction phase). The aim is to find and document defects that may have only recently become visible or previously remained undetected – known as concealed defects. This provides you with a solid basis to assert your claims for remediation against the contractor in a timely manner. Typical late defects can include, for example, cracks in the plaster, moisture damage from leaks, or issues with the building services. The expertise of a building expert by your side during the construction phase and beyond helps you maintain your rights in the long run.Costs vs. Benefits: Why hiring a building expert is financially worthwhile
Of course, hiring a building expert by your side during the construction phase initially costs money, and we understand that some builders might hesitate. But when you consider the financial risk posed by undetected construction defects – DEKRA cites an average of €10,000 per damage case – it quickly becomes clear: The expenses for an expert are a really sensible investment! It’s about steering clear of potentially massive follow-up costs and keeping overall construction costs in check. A transparent cost overview and knowledge of funding opportunities can help you in your decision.
- The costs are an investment to avoid significant follow-up costs due to undetected construction defects.
- The benefits outweigh the costs through quality assurance, defect avoidance, and value preservation.
- Cost factors include hourly rates, travel expenses, type of report, and regional differences.
- Funding (e.g., KfW, BAFA) can reduce the financial burden of project supervision.
Cost factors and benefit analysis – How much does a building expert cost and what do you gain from it?
The costs for such an expert are of course not set in stone, but depend on the scope of services, qualifications, and also the region. Typical items are:
- Hourly rates: According to data, they often range between €90 and €180. For highly specialized experts, it can even go up to €200.
- Travel expenses: These are often charged extra or as a flat rate.
- Type of report: An oral consultation with a brief report is of course cheaper than a lengthy written expert assessment. If the expert continuously accompanies the construction phase and has several appointments, this is usually the most comprehensive and hence also the costliest item.
- Regional differences: In major cities, fees can sometimes be 20-30% higher.
But, and this is the most important thing: Its benefit is in most cases significantly greater than these costs. The main gain for you is clearly the avoidance of costly construction defects and annoying demands for additional payments. It secures construction quality, ensures compliance with building regulations, and can even contribute to increasing the value of your property. An expert brought in early identifies on average 20-25 defects per new building and ensures they are rectified before they develop into really costly long-term damages.
Funding programs for cost reduction – Save smartly!
There are indeed ways to offset the costs for a building expert by your side during the construction phase little. Especially when it comes to energy efficiency, funding money is available. The KfW Bank Group, for example, provides grants for project supervision by a certified energy efficiency expert. Importantly, you must apply for funding *before* hiring the expert and before construction begins. Up to €4,000 can be involved! The BAFA (Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control) also offers funding programs for energy consulting. It’s definitely worth checking whether your selected expert is certified for these programs and perhaps can even assist you with the application. Cleverly combining various funding sources can further alleviate the financial burden and make the investment in quality even more attractive. A good checklist for the construction phase should also keep this point in mind.Expert selection: Finding the right building expert for your project
Finding the right building expert by your side during the construction phase is truly a crucial step for the success of your construction project. Because not everyone who calls themselves an expert has the necessary qualifications and experience. It’s important to look for recognized certifications, demonstrated independence, and regional experience. Only then can you be sure that your interests will be best represented. A careful pre-selection protects you from poor decisions and lays the foundation for a trusting collaboration.
Qualifications and certifications – Recognizing real quality criteria
When selecting an expert, look closely at recognized qualifications. A publicly appointed and sworn (ö.b.u.v.) expert for instance has proven his particular expertise, reliability, and objectivity to an independent body. Other important quality criteria are:
- Certifications according to standards: For example, according to DIN EN ISO/IEC 17024 or DIN ISO 9001:2008. This signals a certified quality management and sound technical knowledge.
- Membership in reputable organizations: Associations like the Association of Private Builders (VPB), TÜV, or Dekra often set high requirements for the qualification of their members.
- Proof of continuous further education: The construction sector is constantly evolving. A good expert regularly continues his education to stay up-to-date with the latest technology and regulations.
Feel free to ask for references and maybe even sample reports to get an impression of the expert’s work style and competence. The should not be the only criterion; quality and proven expertise are simply more important.
Independence, neutrality, and regional expertise – Essential aspects
A fundamental point is the independence and neutrality of your expert. He should be free from economic or personal ties with the construction companies, suppliers, or architects involved in your project. Only in this way can he judge objectively and truly represent your interests as a builder. Don’t hesitate to ask specifically about possible conflicts of interest. Additionally, regional expertise is a real advantage. An expert working locally knows the regional construction customs, specific soil conditions, and perhaps even the working methods of local tradesmen. Additionally, lower travel costs are incurred. The combination of independence and local knowledge makes a building expert by your side during the construction phase a particularly valuable partner for your project. The tasks of construction supervision are diverse and require exactly these attributes.Legal security through construction reports and expert knowledge
Ein building expert comes into play during the construction phase is not only a technical expert but also plays an important legal role. His documentation and reports can serve as solid evidence in cases of dispute and help you effectively assert your rights as a builder. The professional assessment of an independent expert often carries significant weight, both when seeking an out-of-court settlement and in court. It is therefore advisable to pay attention to comprehensive and expert documentation of all important processes from the beginning.
Construction reports as evidence – And what types exist
A construction report prepared by a qualified expert serves as an objective and professionally sound presentation of a fact. In cases involving construction defects or disputes with construction companies, such a report can act as a qualified presentation of a party in legal disputes and can potentially save you from an expensive and time-consuming court report. Different types of reports can be distinguished:
- Comprehensive reports: This is an extensive and very detailed analysis of a fact, often in cases of larger damages or when the questions are very complex.
- Short reports: A more concise form focusing on specific questions or smaller defects and often also cheaper.
- Valuation reports: This serves to determine the market value of a property, but can also be relevant in connection with defects to quantify a decrease in value.
Which type of report is right for you depends on your specific concern. An experienced expert will provide you with the best advice on this. The vary of course depending on the scope and complexity.
Your rights as a builder and how to enforce claims
As a builder, you have clear rights, especially the right to a defect-free building that complies with the contract and recognized rules of technology. Such an expert supports you in asserting these rights and pushing your claims for defect rectification or damages. Through his professional authority and detailed documentation (such as a digital construction diary), he lends weight to your claims. He can precisely describe defects, analyze the causes, and set reasonable deadlines for remediation. If an agreement cannot be reached, his work forms a solid basis for further legal steps. Therefore, engaging an building expert by your side during the construction phase early strengthens your negotiating position significantly and can often help resolve conflicts even out of court.Efficiency gains through digital tools in the expert field
The digitalization has already arrived in the field of experts – and that’s a good thing! For a building expert by your side during the construction phase it opens up great opportunities to work more efficiently and further enhance the quality of his work. Modern software helps to capture data more accurately, make communication more transparent, and improve collaboration among all parties involved in construction. This is exactly where we at Valoon GmbH come in: We want to tackle the classic challenges in the construction process and sustainably optimize the flow of information for everyone.
This is how we bring building experts onto digital platforms
Imagine: Your building expert is directly integrated into a digital construction platform – just as our Valoon solution enables. This fundamentally changes collaboration! Instead of grappling with mountains of paper and time-consuming communication, defects can be digitally recorded on-site, documented with photos, and clearly assigned to the responsible parties. This allows the expert to immediately share his reports and findings with all relevant people. The result? Faster responses, fewer misunderstandings, and a seamless, legally secure documentation chain. Thanks to central data storage, everyone is always up to date. Particularly practical: Our platform also seamlessly integrates messaging services like WhatsApp, making the digital defect capture in construction especially easy for the colleagues in the field.
Software for defect and construction documentation – A must!
A specialized software for digital defect management and construction documentation is simply part of the basic equipment of a modern expert. Such systems allow defects to be systematically recorded – including photos, accurate localization in the plan, and assignment of responsibilities and deadlines. And the best part: Reports and protocols are automatically generated, saving considerable time and keeping administrative overhead low. We at Valoon GmbH have developed a solution that transforms your day-to-day messenger communication into structured project data. This way, elaborate software training can be eliminated! An expert can significantly increase his efficiency with such tools and fully concentrate on what he does best: the technical assessment and quality assurance. The are thus optimally supported.
Also offline and secure: Keeping the data under control
We know: Construction sites are not always places with the best internet reception. Therefore, the offline availability of software solutions is absolutely crucial for a building expert by your side during the construction phase . Data must be able to be captured without a network and later synchronized. Our Valoon platform makes exactly that possible, so work processes don’t come to a halt. Equally important to us is the data security. Your sensitive project data must be protected from unauthorized access and regularly backed up. We place the highest value on this, with top security standards and redundant data storage, ensuring your information is always safe and available. The expert can therefore rely on the secure storage and accessibility of his important documents and findings – this is also the basis for a successful construction documentation.Practical examples: Successful damage prevention and defect remediation
The whole theoretical advantages of a building expert by your side during the construction phase sound good already, but the best way to understand is through concrete examples from practice, right? There are countless construction projects that were saved from serious financial damage and lengthy disputes by involving an expert in a timely manner. These success stories show how proactive quality control and expert defect analysis can truly make a difference. Often, the investment in an expert pays off if just a single significant error is avoided.
Practical examples: How construction experts help to rectify defects
A classic example is the discovery of leaks in the basement area by an expert – and that before the excavation is filled in again. Without this check, the defect might not have been noticed until years later through moisture damage in the basement. And then, a remediation could have been really expensive, sometimes even reaching millions! In another case, an expert was able to determine during the inspection of the roof structure that the vapor barrier was installed incorrectly . This defect could have led to significant mold growth and poor insulation performance. However, thanks to the early intervention of the expert, the error could still be corrected cost-effectively. Such examples make it clear: The expertise of an expert is not just theoretical; it brings tangible financial benefits and ensures the quality of your building. A mobile defect management can significantly simplify documentation and communication.
Prevention is better than cure: Preventive measures and long-term benefits
The work of such an expert primarily aims to prevent problems. By checking planning documents early on, potential sources of error can often be eliminated before construction begins. Regular inspections on the construction site ensure that the execution meets quality standards. In the long run, you as the builder will benefit from higher construction quality, lower maintenance costs, and better preservation of your property’s value. An expert also helps to ensure compliance with energy standards, which can be reflected in lower energy costs. Comprehensive documentation of all construction phases and any defects provides you with legal certainty and a strong position in case disputes arise later. Thus, investing in an building expert by your side during the construction phase is an investment in your future and the worry-free enjoyment of your own four walls.Conclusion: Building safely and with high quality with expert support
Having a qualified building expert by your side during the construction phase accompany you is one of the most important decisions you can make as a builder for the safety and quality of your project. This is not a cost factor that can be skipped, but an absolutely crucial investment to avoid construction defects,to adhere to budgets and schedules, and to secure the long-term value of your property. The expertise of an independent professional protects you from expensive mistakes and ensures clarity in the often quite complex construction process.
The key advantages of a construction expert at a glance
Hiring an expert brings you a whole range of benefits that pay off sustainably. Here are the key points summarized again:
- Early detection and prevention of construction defects: This saves you significant costs for later renovations.
- Quality assurance: Ensures compliance with building regulations, standards, and contractually agreed services.
- Cost control: Helps you keep the budget under control and avoid unexpected additional claims.
- Legal certainty: Well-founded documentation and expert opinions strengthen your position in disputes.
- Preservation of the property’s value: High construction quality secures the long-term value of your property.
Such an expert is like a fiduciary partner by your side, ensuring that your construction project is built on a solid foundation.
A little outlook: What does the future hold?
The construction industry is constantly evolving. Topics like sustainability, energy efficiency, and digitalization are becoming increasingly important. A future-oriented expert will incorporate these trends into their work and advise you as a builder accordingly. Digital tools for construction documentation and defect management, such as those we develop at Valoon GmbH, will further enhance efficiency and transparency. The requirements for the qualifications of experts are likely to continue to increase to meet the growing complexity of construction projects. For you as a builder, this means that choosing a competent and well-equipped expert will be even more important to benefit optimally from these developments. Investing in an building expert by your side during the construction phase is an investment in the future security and quality of your construction project. If you want to learn more about how our software solutions can assist you and your expert, simply contact us today for a personalized consultation.
When is the best time to hire a construction expert for the construction phase?
It is best to hire a construction expert as early as possible, ideally already before signing the contract with the construction company. This way, they can review construction plans and the construction contract, and point out possible problems early on.
What specific tasks does a construction expert take on during construction execution?
A construction expert conducts regular site visits to check the quality of construction, documents defects and deviations, evaluates energy concepts, and assists with the final construction acceptance..
How does a construction expert help save costs during construction?
Through the early detection of construction defects – an average of 20-25 per new building – a construction expert prevents expensive corrections. This can avoid follow-up costs averaging 10,000 euros per case of damage according to DEKRA.
Are there any financial incentives for hiring a construction expert?
Yes, for construction support by a certified energy efficiency expert, you can for example receive KfW grants of up to 4,000 euros. It is important to submit the application before commissioning and the start of construction. How does the role of a construction expert differ from that of a construction manager?
Worin unterscheidet sich die Rolle des Bausachverständigen von der des Bauleiters?
The construction manager is primarily responsible for the organization and coordination of the construction site. The construction expert, on the other hand, acts as an independent controller of construction quality and advisor to the builder to protect their interests.
How can software like Valoon improve collaboration with the construction expert?
Digital platforms like Valoon enable more efficient communication and defect documentation.The expert can directly record and share findings digitally, which shortens the response times and ensures a seamless tracking. What qualifications should a good construction expert have?
Welche Qualifikationen sollte ein guter Bausachverständiger mitbringen?
Look for recognized qualifications such as ”publicly appointed and sworn” (ö.b.u.v.), certifications (e.g., DIN EN ISO/IEC 17024), and memberships in professional associations such as VPB or TÜV. Also, regional experience is beneficial.
Why is the support of a construction expert during the construction acceptance so important?
During the construction acceptance, the burden of proof for defects shifts to the builder.An expert helps to document all existing defects in the acceptance protocol, which forms the basis for claims for corrections.
