A welcome trend is taking place in the quest for more sensitive, sustainable development: rehabilitating and renovating existing buildings into new, energy-efficient multifamily housing.

Yet applying new methods to older structures can present risks that may have unforeseen impacts, according to Don Neff, president of La Jolla Pacific, Ltd., a national consulting firm advising builders on making the move to "green."

Neff will address these issues on a panel themed "New Life for Old Buildings: Why Recycling Buildings Is Green," at the Multifamily Trends Conference, a national conference presented by the Urban Land Institute and PCBC.

"There is always a risk in incorporating new products and techniques, even in new construction," said Neff.

"Rehabbing an existing structure presents even more challenges, such as ensuring that the trades and construction schedule do not compromise the integrity of the building during the rehab process, and that the new products and technologies will function in harmony with existing systems."

By recycling and reusing much of the existing building materials and creating more energy-efficient, higher-performing buildings, developers are adding a new facet to the goal of sustainable communities. However, the top risk areas associated with new construction are commonly seen in building renovations as well, particularly water intrusion.

"Knowing the risks and having performance guidelines and inspections will minimize the potential for construction-defect litigation and maximize the probability of a good outcome," Neff said.