ᐅ Scratches and similar damage on windows

Hello, we are currently building and received our windows last week. They have a white interior finish and a gray exterior coating. Unfortunately, we have noticed many scratches on the frames, as well as on the glass. There are also lint particles between the panes on the black spacer, and the white coating is showing through at the coated corners, among other issues. We already had a brief discussion with the window installer, but without our architect present. He said that these are not defects and are typical for a product installed by tradespeople. Some of the issues can probably be fixed, but I am skeptical about others. The final inspection is scheduled for next week with us, the architect, and the window installer. Can someone tell me if there are any regulations or standards that specify what is acceptable and what is not? Our architect also believes many things are not right but did not explain exactly what rules apply. I would like to inform myself beforehand so that I am not completely unprepared during the discussion. Can someone tell me which regulations exist and where I can find this information? Thanks for the help.

Hello,

lalala21 schrieb:
Hello, we are currently building and just received our windows last week. They are white on the inside and coated gray on the outside. Unfortunately, we have now noticed many scratches on the frames, also on the glass, lint between the panes on the black spacer, white showing through on the coated corners, etc. We already had a brief conversation with the window installer, but without our architect present. He said none of this is a defect and that this is normal for a trade product. Many issues can probably be fixed, but I am skeptical about some. The final inspection with us, the architect, and the window installer is scheduled for next week. Can anyone tell me if there are any regulations about what is acceptable and what is not? Our architect also says many things are not good but has not specifically explained the rules. I prefer to inform myself so I’m not completely unprepared for the discussion. Can someone tell me what the guidelines are and where to find them? Thanks for the help.

From the window installer’s perspective, the legal situation is unsatisfactory. The basic principle is: until the acceptance of his work, he bears the risk that it may be damaged or destroyed. This means he must fix any damages or even fully redo his work without additional compensation. This applies—with some limitations—even if the VOB Part B (German Construction Contract Procedures) is used as the contractual basis.
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In practice, the difficulty on construction sites often lies in identifying the party responsible for any damage. It is important to act quickly, since the risk of damage transfers to you upon acceptance. Also: the damage should be carefully documented (written records and photos; note witnesses with names and addresses, etc.).

Basically, you can assume that defects which can be corrected after installation without removing/replacing the windows may be fixed this way. Where this is not possible—e.g., scratches on the glass panes—a replacement must be carried out; the window installer owes you a contractually compliant service.

Best regards, Bauexperte

Thank you for the quick response. The window manufacturer immediately wanted to send an inspector (their own) since this is not really a defect. And if the inspector considers it acceptable, we are supposed to pay for it. I think that is a bit excessive for now, and based on what criteria would they judge this? The only standard I found comes from the window manufacturers themselves. We are completely fine with having repairs done. I’m curious to see how the appointment will go.