Public testifies sharply divided over shortening construction-defect window in HB 3746

Chair Pham reopened the public hearing on House Bill 3746 on May 12 to allow additional witnesses who had signed up but not been heard during the earlier session.

The bill would shorten the period during which homeowners or homeowners associations may bring construction-defect claims against developers and builders. Supporters said shorter liability windows and clearer inspection reporting would reduce litigation risk and encourage condominium development; opponents said it would shift repair costs onto homeowners and leave many defects undiscovered until after statutorily shortened deadlines.

Why it matters: Supporters, including builders and affordable-housing developers, said reduced liability exposure is necessary to revive condominium construction and expand affordable homeownership options.…