Members of the firm have represented owners in claims related to design and construction defects in single family homes, condominiums, apartments and commercial and high-rise buildings. Our attorneys have successfully represented clients in all types matters resulting in multiple millions of dollars in settlements, verdicts and arbitration awards.Throughout California, construction defect litigation has become an unfortunate reality impacting owners of single family homes, condominiums and most recently, condominium conversions. Often individuals who have invested much of their life’s savings into owning a new home are disappointed to find that the construction is below par and that the builder refuses to repair serious defects. Litigation is the remedy a homeowner uses to force the builder to pay the cost of repairing the home.
However, under recent California laws, a homeowner can often force a builder to make repairs to their home at no cost and without litigation. Some of the more common, yet serious defects include:
- Stucco Cracks
- Window Leaks
- Door Leaks
- Tile Cracks
- Leaking Showers & Baths
- Plumbing Leaks
- Stained Drywall
- Mold
- Roof Leaks
- Damaged Cabinets
- Cracked Foundation
- Cracked Sidewalks
- Rotting Fences
- Improper yard drainage
We hire experienced experts to analyze any potential defects. Their reports help a jury understand which parties are responsible for the defects, as well as help homeowners obtain realistic repairs to the homes. If you think you have observed construction defects in your home, condominium or office buildings, contact us at (858) 847-0505.
Settlement Reached Involving Construction Defects at Commercial Shopping Center
Ward & Hagen represented the owners of a 170,000 sq ft. commercial shopping center in Riverside County. Built in 2005, the center was facing potential construction defects related to slab leaks, roof leaks, window and door leaks. A team of forensic construction experts established evidence of the problems over two years of litigation. A significant settlement was reached after multiple mediations with over 15 parties, including acceptance of a policy limits demand by the general contractor’s insurance company, allowing the owners to repair and continue leasing their property.
Ward & Hagen recovers over $10 Million for clients in 2012
Ward & Hagen is pleased to announce that in 2012 its attorneys have recovered over $10 million for their clients. The firm successfully resolved a variety of construction defect cases involving custom homes, groups of single family homes and high rise condominiums. Partner Christopher Hagen stated: “We have great attorneys and a strong support staff that allow us to successfully litigate cases of all sizes. They have been fundamental in obtaining the success we’ve had this year for our clients.”
Homeowners Continue to Fight Inadequate Repairs by KB Home
Groups of homeowners in Oceanside, Menifee and Victorville, California are currently fighting for funds to repair defects in their residences built by KB Homes. After retaining Ward & Hagen to manage the communication, the homeowners allowed KB Home to attempt repairs under the California Builder Fix-It Law (Civil Code § 895, et seq.). KB Home chose to make some minor repairs, rather than actually address all the issues pointed out by the homeowners. The homeowners are currently in litigation with KB Home in an attempt to recover damages for all the necessary repairs to their homes. Ward & Hagen fights for homeowners throughout California, both in situations where a builder chooses to actually repair defects, or if it is necessary to go through litigation to reach those repair goals.
Indian Wells Homeowners with Cracked Foundations Reach Confidential Settlement with Builder
A group of homeowners in Indian Wells, California retained Ward & Hagen when it became evident that the foundations of several of their homes were cracking and shifting. Ward & Hagen hired geotechnical forensic experts to diagnose the cause of the problems, both in the soil compaction and the method of concrete installation. A cost to repair was established and after two years of litigation, a confidential settlement was reached. Ward & Hagen continues to represent homeowners who face construction defects of all kinds throughout California.
Calexico Homeowners Recover Funds to Repair Defects
A group of homeowners in Calexico, California recovered settlement funds to repair a variety of construction defects including leaking roofs, leaking windows and cracked stucco. The group of owners retained Ward & Hagen LLP to pursue litigation against the builder of their homes. The attorneys at Ward & Hagen hired a team of forensic construction experts to diagnose the defects and then were able to negotiate a settlement that allows the homeowners to fix these defects as they arise. Ward & Hagen is proud to represent homeowners throughout California and to help these owners fix defects that may appear.