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Florida is a hot, humid state, especially in the summertime. We rely on our HVAC systems to keep us cool and help clear dust and other pollutants from our homes. When something goes wrong with these systems, it can be more than a sweaty annoyance. From private residences to condominiums, a failing or faulty air conditioning unit can cause costly problems.
When contractors or construction companies are to blame for these issues, it may be time to consider litigation. At Herman & Wells, our construction defect attorneys understand what it takes to hold contractors accountable for serious mistakes. Reach out right away so our Dunedin HVAC defect lawyer can advise you of your options.
There are many issues that can arise due to a faulty HVAC system, and some of them are more serious than the inability to cool your home when it’s hot outside. Arguably, the most serious issue that HVAC defects can cause is mold growth and structural damage caused by moisture. This might occur due to condensation building up behind the walls. Additionally, poor ventilation can accelerate mold growth where water already exists.
Most people only realize something is wrong with their system when it is not heating or cooling efficiently. But this is more than just a nuisance when temperatures are high. A Dunedin lawyer can guide you through the litigation process if a malfunctioning HVAC has caused serious problems in your home.
The law in Dunedin applies strict deadlines for anyone considering litigation over HVAC issues. If you wait too long to file a lawsuit, you could miss out on your chance to recover damages. Damages refer to the financial payments you could receive if your case is successful.
Typically, you have four years to file suit once HVAC problems arise. One of the challenges with these cases is that it is not always clear when a defect occurs. It is not uncommon for negligent installations or repairs to go unnoticed for months or even years before something goes wrong.
To address the risk of the deadline expiring before you discover the defect, the four-year time limit in these cases only starts once the issue is discovered. However, it is important to note that Florida has also adopted something called the statute of repose. Under this rule, the maximum time to file a legal claim is seven years from the completion of the project (in this instance, the date the unit was installed and the job was completed), no matter when it was discovered.
There are multiple reasons why you can benefit from placing your HVAC problem litigation in the hands of a Dunedin attorney. These disputes can be complicated, especially when multiple contractors and subcontractors had access to your system. One of the first steps a lawyer can take is identifying each of the potential defendants in a legal case.
Investigating these defects is only the first step. Often, our firm can negotiate a settlement long before litigation is necessary. In other cases, we can work out a reasonable resolution up until the moment the case goes to trial.
The most important time to have an attorney by your side is at trial. From understanding rules of evidence to selecting a jury, the process of handling these proceedings is best left to experienced legal counsel.
If you are having HVAC issues, it is critical that you speak with a Dunedin HVAC defect lawyer right away. You have the chance to have your losses paid for, but only if you act immediately.
At Herman & Wells, we understand how to manage complex legal actions from start to finish. With more than 20 years of experience in Florida construction litigation, we’re here to help you get the justice you deserve. Reach out right away to discuss your case during a confidential consultation.
