Every homeowner understands the desire to save money on repairs or renovations. But people need to be cautious because frugality can sometimes lead to hiring unscrupulous or unqualified individuals and when mistakes are made, it can create considerable expense and stress. In these times, you may be unsure of how to proceed or what recourse you may have, but there is always hope and you should consult with an experienced lawyer to find your next step.
Recently, a Virginia homeowner wanted to have a grading issue corrected in their backyard and retained the services of an unlicensed contractor. During the process, the contractor used some heavy duty machinery which was operated too close to the house, resulting in a cracked foundation. This extensive level of damage caused the homeowner a great deal of inconvenience, time, and money, before finally being repaired by an engineering firm for approximately $20,000. The homeowner understandably wanted to hold the responsible party liable and decided to speak with the Roanoke attorney with Copenhaver, Ellett & Derrico.
Attorney Rick Derrico took the homeowner’s case and began the process of filing a lawsuit against this unlicensed contractor. Complications arose when it was alleged that the damage was not caused by the machine and was, in fact, a preexisting condition. By utilizing his extensive experience with construction and business lawsuits, attorney Derrico knew that this issue needed to be settled by an expert witness. While this is not something most individuals can do on their own, attorney Derrico accomplished it through his firm’s considerable resources and expansive network of relationships.
By providing compelling testimony and evidence that the damage was caused by the equipment’s inappropriate use, attorney Derrico’s clients were awarded a full recovery for the cost of their repairs, the expert analysis, attorney fees, and a refund for the amount they originally paid the unlicensed contractor. Ultimately, and due in large part to the quality representation attorney Derrico provided, the homeowners were fortunately given the opportunity to be made financially whole and were able to move forward having learned to always hire reputable and experienced attorney and contractors.
The outcome of an individual case depends on a variety of factors unique to that case. Case results do not guarantee or predict a similar result in any similar or future case.