What kind of work is classified as defective?

Defective work is characterized by instances of poor workmanship, where the quality of the work does not meet the established standards or specifications required for the project. Such work can lead to functional issues, safety hazards, or aesthetic concerns that ultimately impact the overall success of the project. Recognizing defective work is crucial in the architectural and construction industries, as it can result in increased costs for repairs or rework and may also have legal implications if it breaches contracts or warranties.

In contrast, completing work ahead of schedule, meeting initial specifications, or finishing under budget does not inherently indicate any defect in the work itself. These factors are often seen as positive outcomes in project management. Meeting specifications ensures that the work aligns with the agreed measures of quality, while staying under budget and on schedule are typically goals aimed for to enhance efficiency and project viability. Therefore, the identification of defective work is focused primarily on the quality aspect, making poor workmanship the clear choice for classification as defective.