About His Butt's Covered
How many times have you heard, “but I told them that we shouldn’t tile over it”? Most people don’t want to cause trouble, and this can lead to bad professional decision making. What is often overlooked or not known is that it is normally a contractual obligation to inform the general contractor or homeowner of anything that will negatively impact the quality of the work. It is also listed in most all specifications under the Examination section stating to correct conditions that do not meet manufacturer’s requirements or that may be detrimental to the installation. Furthermore, it is an ANSI requirement per A108.02 stating, “Prior to commencing ceramic tilework, the tile contractor shall inspect surfaces to receive tile and accessories, and shall notify the architect, general contractor, or other designated authority in writing of any visually obvious defects or conditions that will prevent a satisfactory tile installation. Installation work shall not proceed until satisfactory conditions are provided.”
One good approach is to first have a conversation explaining the conditions that need to be addressed. Let them know upfront that written documentation will follow. This may or may not prompt action to correct the problem, but what is most important is that at least you have documented in writing what was agreed upon or what was told to them. Beware, even with written documentation, if you proceed with the installation that doesn’t meet the standards and later has a problem, you can still be held liable.