[header] How to defend yourself in a faulty workmanship claim [title] Read the notice of claim. [step] Your state might require that the client send you a written notice of any defects before bringing the lawsuit. The client should describe the defects and also make a demand that you fix them or inspect them. 
[title] Respond to the notice in a timely manner. [step] Your state law might set a deadline, such as 21 days after receiving the notice.