7 Construction Incidents That Could Cost You Thousands

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When the Claim Hits the Fan, Photos Are Your Only Defense

In construction, things go wrong — and when they do, whoever has the best documentation usually wins.

From minor mistakes to major accidents, one thing is consistent across every dispute, delay, or claim: photo evidence is the difference between getting paid or paying out.

At Completion Phase, we help contractors across the U.S. document their builds with FAA-certified drone pilots so they’re protected when things hit the fan.


💥 Here Are 7 Real-World Incidents That Can Cost You Thousands Without Proper Image Documentation:


1. A Sub Backfills Too Soon — And the Trench Collapses

Without proof that inspections or compaction tests were done before backfill, the GC often gets stuck with the repair costs — even if it wasn’t their fault.

Drone photo proof could show trench condition, shoring, and open status before sub covered it.


2. The Framer Says They Installed the Straps — The Inspector Says Otherwise

Tie-downs, holdowns, and connectors are small details with huge consequences. When they’re missed and covered up, you need proof they were installed.

A time-stamped image series of framing milestones gives you legal and compliance cover.


3. Storm Rolls In — Your Jobsite Floods or Materials Get Damaged

Insurers want to know: Was the site prepped? Were drains cleared? Were materials stored properly?

Aerial photos before the storm show your team took the right precautions.


4. Final Punch Walk Turns Into a Warranty Claim Later

Six months after closeout, the homeowner files a claim for cracking concrete or missing sealant. Do you have proof of condition at final turnover?

Completion Phase images from final walkthrough give you a clear exit file.


5. Utility or Civil Sub Says They Hit “Unmarked” Pipes

Disputes over utility strikes get ugly fast. If you didn’t document trenching, as-builts, or markings before the dig, you’ll struggle to defend your side.

Progress photos tied to civil work provide an indisputable timeline.


6. The Roofing Contractor Claims a Delivery Damaged Their Work

Shingles, vents, or flashing get damaged. Was it the roofer? The delivery? Or someone else?

Aerial photos from the day before and day after delivery show who touched what — and when.


7. You Get Sued for “Negligence” After a Neighbor’s Fence Collapses

Projects that border other properties often get pulled into claims. Having drone documentation of boundary conditions can stop false accusations cold.

Your record shows fence was intact before excavation or grading near the line.


🧱 Construction Documentation Isn’t a “Nice-to-Have” — It’s Armor

These aren’t hypotheticals. They happen every week — and if you don’t have image-based proof, you risk:

  • Paying out of pocket
  • Losing trust with owners
  • Delays in insurance claims
  • Lawsuits you could’ve avoided

📸 Completion Phase Gives You the Visual Record You Need

With drone-captured, third-party verified imagery, you can:

  • ✅ Prove what happened (and what didn’t)
  • ✅ Speed up claims with clear evidence
  • ✅ Resolve disputes faster
  • ✅ Sleep better at night

Our platform connects you with certified pilots, schedules regular flights, and delivers organized, insurance-ready files to protect your timeline — and your budget.


👉 Join the waitlist now or schedule your next flight with Completion Phase.