Legal Question in Construction Law in Ohio
Builder fraud?
We're in the process of building a
new home and we're approaching the
end of the process.
The builder has not finished the job
and is no longer returning phone calls
in a timely manner.
I became nervous last week, because
when the process is finished the
builder will owe me a significant sum
of money because (during the build) I
purchased and paid for several big-
ticket items that he is supposed to
reimburse me for - using the
allowances (for instance, appliances,
countertops, kitchen cabinets etc).
He has not yet taken the final draw
and I incurred additional bank fees as
a result of the time it's taken to
complete the job.
So, I contacted the bank to
investigate what's going on and ask
why I have not been required to sign
off on all of the draws during the
process (as they advised I would be
required to do). It turns out that the
builder has been submitting
photocopies of my sign off for the
first draw, for each of the subsequent
draws (2,3, and 4). They are all
dated in October 2007.
I have several concerns now -
regarding the funds and want to
know if it's legal for him to submit
photocopied draw disbursement
document?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Builder fraud?
Dear Concerned Homeowner: It appears, from the information you provided that your builder and your bank may both be involved in fraud and conversion of funds, either jointly or severally.
I would strongly urge you immediately retain aggressive, experienced legal counsel to investigate and proceed to protect your rights and interests.
Good luck.
sincerely, J. Norman Stark, Cleveland, OH
Re: Builder fraud?
Dear Concerned Homeowner: It appears, from the information you provided that your builder and your bank may both be involved in fraud and conversion of funds, either jointly or severally.
I would strongly urge you immediately retain aggressive, experienced legal counsel to investigate and proceed to protect your rights and interests.
Good luck.
sincerely, J. Norman Stark, Cleveland, OH
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