Willowbrook developer KB Home files suit against subcontractors

KB Home, developer of the Willowbrook condominium community in East County, filed a lawsuit against the subcontractors it hired to build the homes.

Lannie Hough Jr. of Tampa-based Carlton Fields filed the suit on KB Home’s behalf in Manatee County Circuit Court April 23.

A statement by Cara Kane, regional director of public relations at KB Home read:

“KB Home stands behind its product and warranty, and requires that same commitment of those companies and individuals with whom we contract to build our homes. We are continuing to make repairs in the Willowbrook community, and are taking the appropriate steps to seek reimbursement from those subcontractors who have not fulfilled their obligations in the construction of these homes."

Since August of last year, Willowbrook homeowners have complained of moldy ceilings, sinking floors and water-damaged walls, among other problems.

Residents say these problems are the result of faulty building and materials.

In August, Willowbrook residents pressured KB Home to correct the structural issues.

Willowbrook’s homeowners association worked out a confidential settlement agreement with KB in September, jointly selected DueAll Construction to complete repairs.

DueAll Construction did not work on the homes originally and was not included in the suit.

Repair work by DueAll Construction has been under way since early December but residents have complained of slow progress, prompting Sen. Bill Galvano to visit the community in February, to speed the up the process.

Later that month, KB Home agreed to pay for the temporary relocation of Willowbrook residents whose properties required repairs and were deemed unlivable.

Check back at yourobserver.com and look out for a story in this week’s East County Observer for new details in this developing story.