Home / Crime and Justice / Texas Family Wins $21.6M Over Deadly Home Defects
Texas Family Wins $21.6M Over Deadly Home Defects
11 Nov
Summary
- Family awarded over $21.6 million for faulty plumbing and construction defects.
- Sewer vents were found inside the attic, spreading gas throughout the home.
- The home remains unfit to live in; the family resides in an RV.
A Texas family received over $21.6 million in damages following a jury verdict concerning significant construction defects. The homeowners discovered in 2018 that their house had faulty plumbing, with sewer vents incorrectly installed inside the attic. This design allowed dangerous sewer gases to circulate throughout the residence, leading to health problems for the family, including migraines and respiratory issues.
Further construction flaws involved a foundation that was not properly sealed, permitting moisture intrusion and resulting in widespread mold growth. The cumulative effect of these defects rendered the home unsafe and uninhabitable. As a direct consequence, the family was advised to vacate the property and has been living in a recreational vehicle on their land.
The Tarrant County jury found the contractor, NAE Enterprises, and others involved negligent and responsible for knowing and intentional violations of the Deceptive Trade Practices Act. The jury awarded $10 million in exemplary damages against NAE Enterprises, attributing 77% of the responsibility to the company.
Legal representatives highlighted that builders have a duty to ensure homes are constructed safely and meet required standards. They emphasized that this verdict underscores the accountability of builders for the safety of the homes they construct and the families who inhabit them. The McCoy family expressed hope that this outcome would encourage other homeowners facing similar hazardous conditions to come forward.
