May 22, 2009 10:25 pm US/Central
Homeowner Battles Builder Over Water Damage
EDINA, Minn. (WCCO) ―
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Rudell believes poor window installation by Hansen Construction Company is what caused the moisture damage. He said the problem was detected within the 10-year warranty, but so far Hansen hasn't helped with the six-figure repair job.
CBS
"Your home is your castle whether it's here in Edina or somewhere else," said homeowner Bob Rudell.
But since last summer, Rudell said his "castle" have been under siege.
It all started when his neighbor put an addition onto her home and found water damage that would cost thousands to fix. Her house is stucco, like Rudell's, and built within a year of his home, by the same builder. He started to wonder if he had the same problem.
Rudell's worst fears were realized when he hired a home evaluation company to check his home for moisture. They drilled holes in the side of his house and found moisture levels high enough to potentially cause mold and wood rot.
"We were stunned and very disappointed. We knew we were going to have a struggle in front of us and we have not been disappointed on that aspect, unfortunately," said Rudell.
Rudell believes poor window installation by Hansen Construction Company is what caused the moisture damage. He said the problem was detected within the 10-year warranty, but so far Hansen hasn't helped with the six-figure repair job.
"It would be ideal for us if our developer would stand behind the warranty that's in place," said Rudell.
Rudell is not alone. He said five other stucco homes in the Parkwood Knolls neighborhood have reported having similar problems.
"It was something that was completely shocking. It was unexpected, it's a newer home. We were basically stunned," said neighbor Jill Schweiger.
In response to the allegations, Carl Hansen, President of Hansen Construction, released a statement. Because of litigation, Hansen said he has been advised by his attorney not to discuss the complaints, but he did say his family has been building homes in the Twin Cities for over 80 years and never once been told by a judge or jury how to resolve a homeowner problem.
He also added that his company has had hundreds of satisfied customers and have always addressed any problems when contacted directly by the homeowner. Several owners of Hansen-built homes sent e-mails stating their satisfaction in working with his company.
Bob Rudell is satisfied too -- except for this one issue which he said is costing him thousands in legal fees. Rudell said he is just asking the builder to stand behind their warranty.
"We're actually disappointed that that hasn't happened. He is a very credible, reputable, professional builder whose family has worked in this town for generations so we are surprised that they're not doing that," said Rudell.
Rudell and his wife are currently in litigation with Hansen Construction. A judge will likely decide if Hansen will have to help the Rudells pay for the moisture damage.
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