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Lawsuit filed against developer

Good Morning!

Our local paper (Martinsburg, WV) has a story on the front page that M.D.C. Holdings, dba Richmond American Homes of West Virginia is being sued by 10 homeowners for allegedly failing to install functional radon pipes in their new constructions. It says that one homeowner claims that fake pipes were installed to intentionally deceive the building inspector!! WOW!

As far as I can tell there are no realtors/brokers named in the suit at this time.

I know that when I've shown new constructions, I've pointed out that pipes, not mitigation systems, were in place. I also have given my "Radon Speech" many times to prospective buyers of all types of homes (what it is, what it does, EPA recommendations, etc.)

I believe that Richmond American builds homes in other areas of the country and was wondering if similar allegations have been made. Anyone know of anything?

Thanks, Amy

Posted by Amy Salisbury West Virginia Realtor/Jefferson/Berkeley on 06/23/2008 10:54 AM

Comments (6)

radon, lawsuit, richmond american, new construction

6 Comments on Lawsuit filed against developer

JUN

2008

GOOD! I have a huge problem when develpers advertise ammenties, certain builders then they decide to CHANGE them!

I didn't know that new construction required this. I'm going to have to check my house! I fail to see how a realtor could be liable for not realizing that these pipes were fakes. Especially if the building inspector passed the house and CO'ed it.

Wow, fake Radon pipes. That is a new one. I can't see the builder possibly defending that one successfully in court.

I'm guessing that the builder disclosed that radon pipes would be installed, but did not inform the buyers what this means. In our area, the pipe is installed, but no fans, etc are connected. Uninformed buyers may believe that because the pipe is there, nothing else is required. And, no need for a radon test, as the pipes are already in place!

Just another reason a buyer should work with a Realtor, not just the builder's rep.

Amy

It sounds like the state should be investigating this, seems like an obvious case of fraud.

Holy, moley on this one. I agree with Stuart when he says there is no way this builder can defend against this one. Big mistake.

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