SB 1176 Summary

• Extends the statute of limitations for filing complaints against residential builders and contractors from 18 months to more than 10 years after completion, occupancy, purchase, or issuance of certificate of occupancy, whichever is latest.

• Requires licensed residential builders and contractors to provide homeowners with a written warranty lasting at least 10 years covering workmanship standards and materials, with reimbursement provisions up to $50,000 for breaches.

• Establishes that warranties must be assignable to subsequent property purchasers and include notice that the builder/contractor is licensed and that homeowners have complaint rights under the occupational code.

• Allows licensees to establish contractual alternative dispute resolution procedures; the department cannot initiate proceedings if such procedures have not been utilized unless non-compliance or procedural failures occur.

• Modifies burden of proof in workmanship complaints so licensees must refute evidence and prove why deficiencies were not corrected; requires homeowners to provide notice of accessible repair times and proof repairs were not made within 60 days.