When a Contractor Deviates from Approved Plans or Materials in Nevada

By TerribleContractors.com – We Hold Bad Builders Accountable

 

When you hire a contractor, you expect them to follow the approved plans, specifications, and materials agreed upon in your contract or with your architect. But what happens when they don’t?

 

If your contractor changed the design without permission, used cheaper materials, or ignored engineering requirements, you may have a strong legal claim. At TerribleContractors.com, we help Nevada homeowners hold contractors accountable for unauthorized changes and construction deviations.

 

What Is a Contractor Deviation?

A contractor deviation occurs when a contractor fails to build according to the approved plans, architectural drawings, specifications, or contract terms—either intentionally or through negligence.

 

Examples of Deviations:

• Using substandard or unapproved materials

• Making unauthorized design changes

• Ignoring structural or safety elements in engineering plans

• Eliminating features or components without consent

• Misrepresenting what will be installed or built

 

Whether it’s done to cut costs or due to incompetence, deviating from approved plans is a serious breach of trust—and potentially the law.

 

Is It Illegal for a Contractor to Deviate from the Plans?

 

Yes. In Nevada, contractors are required by law and by licensing regulations to follow the

contract and approved construction documents.

🚨 Violations May Include:

• Breach of contract – for failing to deliver what was promised

• Construction defects – especially if the deviation compromises safety or performance

• Deceptive trade practices – if the contractor used cheaper materials or hid changes

• Code violations – if changes impact safety, structure, or inspections

• Professional negligence – if deviations are the result of poor supervision or planning

In short: if your contractor ignored the plans or cut corners, you may be entitled to financial recovery.

 

Nevada Law That May Apply

 

📜 NRS Chapter 624 – Nevada Contractor Licensing Law

• Requires licensed contractors to perform work according to plans and specifications

• Deviation from plans without consent is considered a license violation

• May result in disciplinary action by the Nevada State Contractors Board (NSCB)

 

📜 NRS Chapter 40 – Construction Defects Law

• Allows homeowners to pursue claims for defects caused by unauthorized changes

• Includes recovery for repairs, loss of use, property value reduction, and more

 

What Are Your Legal Options?

When a contractor deviates from approved plans or materials, you have multiple avenues for recourse in Nevada:

 

1. File a Complaint with the NSCB

The Nevada State Contractors Board may discipline the contractor and facilitate restitution. They investigate violations related to plan deviations, material substitution, and misrepresentation.

 

2. Pursue a Civil Lawsuit

You may sue the contractor for:

• Breach of contract

• Construction defects

• Deceptive trade practices

• Fraud or misrepresentation

• Cost of correction or rebuild

We often work with expert witnesses (engineers, architects, inspectors) to prove the deviation and assess the damage.

 

3. File a Claim Against the Contractor’s Bond or Insurance

Nevada contractors are required to carry a surety bond and often general liability or E&O insurance. If they deviated from the plans, you may be able to:

• File a bond claim through the NSCB

• File an insurance claim for repair costs and related damages

 

Why Work With TerribleContractors.com?

We don’t just know construction law—we specialize in exposing contractors who lie, cut corners, or go rogue.

 

Our team will:

• Review contracts, plans, and communications

• Inspect and document deviations with professionals

• File complaints and legal claims

• Pursue maximum compensation through court, settlement, or arbitration

• Help you fix the mess and move forward

 

Don’t Let a Contractor Get Away With Cutting Corners

If your contractor ignored the approved plans or used inferior materials, you may be entitled to compensation—even if the work is “finished.”