/
ABOUT THE CASE, CLAIM, OR ISSUE
At a luxury oceanfront resort, a glazing subcontractor found itself in the legal crosshairs. Plaintiffs alleged that newly installed guestroom windows and sliding glass doors were defectively installed, causing leaks that allowed water intrusion. This, they claimed, led to staining, finish damage, and other moisture‑related concerns inside the suites. In filings, the plaintiffs went even further, pointing to other resort issues such as balcony surface wear and common area finish blemishes. This was part of their broader narrative of construction failures.
Legal counsel for the glazing subcontractor’s insurance carrier retained YA Group to investigate the installation work, clarify the subcontractor’s actual scope of responsibility, and determine whether the alleged leaks were truly attributable to the glazier’s contracted work.
ABOUT THE INVESTIGATION
YA Group’s construction & engineering forensics team began with a detailed review of contracts, specifications, shop drawings, and correspondence to understand the glazing subcontractor’s scope and obligations. Site inspections were then conducted in multiple guestroom units, with close observation of door and window assemblies, sealants, and integration points with surrounding construction.
The investigation revealed that while isolated leaks had been observed, not all had originated from the glazing systems. In several locations, water penetration was traced to design elements or construction details outside of the glazier’s control. These included interface conditions with adjacent trades. In many of the inspected units, the glazing assemblies were found to meet or exceed both the manufacturer’s requirements and the stipulated project specifications.
ABOUT THE RESOLUTION
YA Group’s findings provided counsel with clear and compelling evidence that significantly limited the glazing subcontractor’s exposure. By distinguishing between issues within the glazier’s scope and those stemming from design or other trades, the team demonstrated the majority of the alleged defects could not be attributed to the insured’s work. As a result, the carrier’s potential loss was reduced by more than 80 percent. Both the glazier and the carrier left the matter quite pleased. The forensic defect reporting had helped them overcome a wide‑ranging set of allegations, enabling a faster, significantly more favorable resolution.
ABOUT YA GROUP
When insurance carriers and their counsel face high‑stakes construction defect claims, they turn to the experts at YA Group. With deep technical knowledge across virtually every construction trade and a proven track record in forensic investigation, litigation support, and expert testimony, our team delivers the facts needed to drive resolution. Whether the matter involves water intrusion, building envelope disputes, or complex multi‑trade coordination issues, YA Group provides timely, scientific findings that protect your insureds as well as your bottom line. Kindly call on us today.