Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS), a.k.a. Synthetic Stucco

Lea, Rhine, Rosbrugh & Chleborowicz, P.L.L.C. is a national trendsetter in legal action for property owners who have suffered financially and health-wise from defects associated with EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems), multi-layered exterior wall systems commonly referred to as synthetic stucco.

Even when installed and used as intended EIFS has been repeatedly documented to trap moisture, especially in humid conditions common in coastal area. This trapped moisture can lead to short and long-term structural deterioration. Trapped moisture can also lead to the proliferation of mold, creating a significant health hazard for occupants. These conditions have drastically increased repair costs in numerous cases found in both residential and commercial construction, impacting negatively on property values.

Prompt remediation is necessary to halt damage and limit the spread of moisture intrusion problems resulting from EIFS that are often very expensive to fix. Usually the best thing to do is to remove the EIFS cladding and replace with a more reliable exterior finish.

Attorneys from Lea, Rhine, Rosbrugh & Chleborowicz have had excellent documented success in resolving EIFS cases for the benefit of clients, including both negotiated settlements and jury awards by those who have been financially damaged. Lea, Rhine, Rosbrugh & Chleborowicz is also proud to be leading member of the EIFS Legal Network, whose member firms have settled synthetic stucco cases reaching $100 million in total recovery for clients.

It has been our repeated experience over the years that all of the potentially responsible parties (general contractor, EIFS subcontractor, EIFS manufacturer, etc.) will blame each other and point fingers rather than taking responsibility to resolving problems. In this situation, civil litigation has been very effective. The responsible parties are then forced to deal with each other and work towards a resolution of your case, or face the possibility of explaining their actions to a jury.

EIFS-related moisture intrusion is also a liability issue for managers and property associations affiliated with multi-family dwellings or commercial buildings that may be owned by another party.

A key consideration is that legal action on an EIFS-related problem must be undertaken before statutes of limitation expire. The timely filing of a lawsuit can serve to protect property owners or others at risk, while negotiations with the responsible parties go forward.

If you are the owner of a structure that is still EIFS-clad or represent an association or management group that has a potential EIFS problem, feel free to contact Lea, Rhine, Rosbrugh & Chleborowicz, whose lawyers are proven experts in this practice area.

If you or a loved one is in need of legal assistance, call Lea, Rhine, Rosbrugh & Chleborowicz, P.L.L.C. at (910) 772-9960 or toll free at (866) 772-9960 or submit an online questionnaire. If we agree to handle your case, we will work on a contingency fee basis, which means we get paid for our services only if there is a monetary recovery of funds. In many cases, a lawsuit must be filed before an applicable expiration date, known as a statute of limitations. Please call right away to ensure that you do not waive your right to possible compensation.