Legal Question in Construction Law in New Hampshire

We recently hired a general contractor to basically remodel our whole house with a 203K Loan in New Hampshire. He was required to pull all necessary permits as part of his job. We just recently found out that he DID NOT pull any mechanical permits for this project (removing the chimney and power venting the heating system etc.) How we found out was we were having some trouble with the heating system and our heating guy came over to fix, and he did, but when he saw the power vent plugged into an outlet (without a cover) he was upset and said it should have been hardwired not pigtailed and plugged into an outlet. The contractor got upset and said his people don't cut corners and the plumbing inspector signed off. I called the plumbing inspector himself and he was the one who told me that he never pulled any mechanical permits. He said he would have caught that mistake. What can we do at this point? Contractor said if we hire our heating guy to fix, it will void our warranty with him and he stands behind the fact that the plumbing inspector signed off. But keep in mind that their is a separate mechanical inspector.The project was signed off and paid in full back in July 2011.


Asked on 11/01/11, 9:56 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Bruce L. Dorner Dorner Law Office

All of the inspectors likely work in the Building or Code Enforcement department of the municipality. You need them on your side. Start by going to that office and asking questions about your job and should the contractor have pulled permits for the work done. If the department says yes, then ask for their help and advice. Sometimes they will reach out to the contractor for input and corrective action.

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Answered on 11/01/11, 10:26 am


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