Legal Question in Legal Ethics in Missouri

Obviously the contractor. In your scenario is likely liable to the homeowner, as they had an independent duty to build at the correct grade. They could bring in the city official as a third party or subrogation defendant. In a suit between just the homebuilder and the city, the analysis is more difficult. The engineer's report, from before the permit was issued, will be very important. If they built just upon the city employee's statement of elevation, the homebuilder may have nobody to blame but themself.. If thus response to your very brief description of the facts, doesn't resolve your question, you should consult directly with a civil practice attorney in t your area. There aren't enough facts to give anyone a definite answer about possible liabilities. If the land around the house can be regraded to minimize flooding, someone may have a duty to minimize future damage.

Good luck