All these photos are from the home shown above
Why is this happening?
This is happening because most home builders have been cutting corners in the stucco application (disregarding FL Building Code) on stucco homes saving themselves a month of time, labor, and building materials.
It all comes down to corporate greed, and increasing profit margins for the home builders. The builders love this, because the home looks good when it’s brand new, and the problems related to cutting corners on the stucco application doesn’t usually show until after the home warranty has expired.
FL Building Code states that there are supposed to be 3 independently cured stucco wall systems to protect the wood infrastructure on the 2nd story of the home to protect against potential water intrusion, mold, and wood rot. Typically what we find after a structural engineer has taken core samples of stucco from these homes is that there is only 1 layer of stucco! Now even small cracks in the stucco are allowing water/moisture behind that single layer of stucco which can create very big problems as the home starts to age potentially costing you tens of thousands of dollars in repairs .
Additional examples of damage from improperly installed stucco
WHAT CAN BE DONE?
Nothing if your home was sold by the builder over 10 years ago, and unfortunately there still is not a lot that can be done without the assistance of an Attorney that specializes in Construction Defect law. The home builder isn’t going to admit to any wrong doing, and at best will only agree to make some minor cosmetic fix where the problems show up again in the very near future.
The good news!
Quality Ensured Services is here to help you the homeowner navigate this daunting task of figuring out what to do next? We have all the answers, and can help make the entire process from starting a claim to providing optional long term repair solutions simple & stress free!
First, we will conduct a complimentary exterior inspection of your home to document the current state of your stucco with pictures & a written report.
Secondly, we work with a group of highly experienced Construction Defect Attorneys that we can refer your potential claim to that will take your case on a “Contingency” basis. This means that their is no money out of pocket, or financial risk to you the homeowner, and that that if you go through the claims process, and they do not win your case you will owe nothing!
Thirdly, you will have an opportunity to discuss your claim with the attorney that will actually be handling your case. Once you officially sign with the law firm allowing them to represent you, your involvement is only to decide if you want to accept the builders financial settlement offer made in Mediation, or take the claim to Arbitration where you potentially could receive even more money to offset the additional maintenance, or repair costs associated to your homes specific construction defect(s).
Frequently Asked Questions
Call us at (800) 988-6004 8AM-8PM EST.
NO, each case is handled independently. This way you can be compensated properly for your homes specific damages, and you decide if your willing to accept, or decline the offer made in Mediation, or take it to Arbitration for potentially an even greater settlement.
This depends greatly on size of the home; If there is related water intrusion, mold, or wood rot; Did you settle the case in Mediation, or Arbitration? Homeowners have received settlements (after fees) from $10,000 - $50,000. Ask the attorney during your consultation call for an estimate on what you can expect to receive for your specific claim.
On average we are seeing cases that settle in Mediation takes about 1 year, and cases that go to Arbitration settle in 2 years. The good news is that the Attorney is handling everything for you, so there is nothing to worry about.
NO, the Mediation/Arbitration process is not a civil case, and there is no records of the claim/settlement made public.
Secondly the only thing that will effect your home value is if you allow the stucco condition to continue to deteriorate without at least making some minor repairs.
NO, this construction defect claim is brought against the builder & subcontractors. This claim has absolutely nothing to do with your homeowners insurance policy, and they will never be contacted.
Let the new homeowner start the claim if you are planning on selling your home in less than a year (over a year you could at least settle in Mediation).
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