After the 2021 collapse of the Champlain Towers South, the State of Florida enacted legislation to keep condominium owners safe. These regulations require condominium associations to follow an inspection schedule for buildings that exceed three stories. Many Pinellas County condos are located along beaches, making their support structures vulnerable to saltwater erosion from the Gulf
Architects and construction companies that design, build, inspect, or remodel condominium buildings may be liable for damages caused by defective design and construction defects. Failure to use adequate rebar—a possible contributing cause of the Champlain Towers catastrophe—cracked stucco, and poorly installed windows that allow water and mold to seep in are not just annoyances; they may be dangerous.
If you are a condominium association board member who has discovered recent major construction defects that will cost millions to repair, you should consult with our team. Our construction defect attorneys at Herman & Wells understand how frustrating it is when companies dodge your complaints and ignore damage to your property. We are personally committed to ensuring that your voice is heard, and we will fight for the maximum compensation available for your condominium defects in Pinellas Park.
Beginning in 2025, the state now requires all condominium buildings taller than three stories to undergo a milestone inspection certification when they reach 30 years of age. Local jurisdictions can also require that inspections begin at 25 years. Inspections are required every 10 years after that. Inspection records must be made public and shared with owners. In addition, condo associations are now required to keep a reserve fund that is sufficient to maintain the building’s structural integrity.
As a state with a great deal of construction, Florida also recognizes that some of that construction will be faulty. The state requires a Chapter 558 Notice of Claim before a property owner can file a lawsuit for defective construction. Condo owners or condominium associations must send written notice about their claims to contractors, architects, or developers and ask them to resolve the defects; otherwise, they may face litigation. This covers faults in common areas and units as well as improvements managed or owned by the condo association. The Notice of Claim includes:
Herman & Wells’ experienced lawyers work closely with you to ensure your satisfaction. We negotiate on your behalf with construction companies and others responsible for condominium faults in Pinellas County. If a claim cannot be resolved, we can rely on our extensive litigation experience. If your construction occurred within the past seven years and issues arise, we offer a free consultation.
A lawsuit against a Pinellas County construction company for condo defects that endanger residents is based on negligence. Negligence occurs when a builder contracts to provide services for a specific job and their work done is below the standard of a competent tradesperson, causing financial and sometimes bodily injury to the owner. Our attorneys gather and review evidence to determine what went wrong, secure estimates of the cost to repair the damage, and prove to judges and juries that you deserve the amount we seek. We keep you informed throughout the process. We are also available to answer questions when they arise. For outstanding treatment and experienced advocacy, contact Herman & Wells.
Shoddy construction work can cause injuries, deaths, and financial losses, and there is no excuse for it. At Herman & Wells, we are knowledgeable about inspections, 558 claims, and the process of suing for your losses.
If you discover condominium defects in Pinellas Park, do not wait and hope they will go away. They may get worse. Call us today to schedule a complimentary consultation.
