What Happens When We’re Called to Fix Another Contractor’s Work?

Evaluating some major issues.

Not every project begins with new construction.

Occasionally, homeowners contact us after a renovation has already gone wrong. In those situations, the original contractor is no longer involved, and the homeowner is left dealing with defective tile work, plumbing problems, or incomplete construction.

When we step into these projects, we are not correcting our own installation. We are evaluating and rebuilding work performed by someone else.

Why Do Correction Projects Happen?

Most correction work stems from one or more of the following:

• Improper shower waterproofing

• Incorrect plumbing connections

• Poor tile installation

• Lack of proper slope toward drains

• Incomplete code compliance

• Substrate failure beneath finished surfaces

Many of these issues are not immediately visible. Problems often surface weeks or months after installation — typically when moisture begins to travel beyond the intended waterproofing layer.

By the time a homeowner reaches out, frustration has usually set in.

Why Cosmetic Repairs Rarely Work

In bathroom and tile projects, surface materials are only part of the system.

Tile and grout are not waterproof.Waterproofing membranes, drain integration, and plumbing connections are what protect the structure behind the finish.

If those components were installed improperly, the only responsible solution may be:

• Partial removal of tile

• Full tear-out of the shower assembly

• Rebuilding plumbing connections

• Reinstalling waterproofing systems correctly

There are rarely shortcuts when foundational systems were installed incorrectly.

Our Evaluation Process

When called to assess a prior installation, the first step is diagnosis — not demolition.

We evaluate:

• Whether proper waterproofing systems were used

• Whether plumbing connections meet code

• Whether substrates are structurally sound

• Whether repairs are possible or full reconstruction is required

Only after identifying the root cause can a proper plan be developed.

Correction work requires careful assessment before any rebuilding begins.

Why Correction Work Is Often More Complex Than New Construction

Starting fresh allows every step to follow a planned sequence.

Correcting prior work requires:

• Identifying hidden deficiencies

• Working within existing structural conditions

• Protecting undamaged areas

• Ensuring the rebuilt assembly integrates properly

It is often more technically demanding than building new.

Rebuilding the Right Way

When reconstruction is necessary, the focus shifts to:

• Installing proper waterproofing systems

• Ensuring correct drain integration

• Verifying plumbing integrity

• Meeting or exceeding local building code

• Prioritizing long-term durability

The goal is not to make the surface look better temporarily.The goal is to rebuild the system correctly so the issue does not return.

Final Thoughts

Construction mistakes can occur when proper systems, oversight, or training are lacking. When homeowners reach out after experiencing those mistakes, the focus is not on assigning blame.

The focus is on restoring the space properly.

Whether starting from new construction or correcting a prior installation, the standard remains the same:

• Code compliance

• Proper waterproofing

• Sound plumbing

• Long-term structural integrity

Sometimes the most important work is not building from scratch — it is rebuilding the right way.