ACME vs Anvil Co. & Associates

This case involves a large residential home in California that was surveyed by a professional engineer following a storm. The house sustained significant foundational damages after being hit by a utility pole that came down during the storm. The homeowners hired a structural engineer to review and assess the damage. The engineer noted extensive damage and indicated that major repairs were needed which would take several years to complete. After the renovations were completed, the homeowners put the house up for sale.

A couple with 3 children were very interested in purchasing the home and were informed about the repaired damage. Before making the decision to purchase the property, the individual hired the same engineer who originally assessed the damages to review the house, the damage done, and the repairs made. The engineer concluded that the house was structurally sound and did not recommend any repairs. Because of the positive report results, the couple purchased the home. Within 9 months of purchase, the couple began to notice cracks in the foundation of the house.

The same engineer was consulted to write another report on the house. The engineer described the damages as extensive and assessed the repair value at $115,000. An expert in structural engineering was sought to review the case and opine on whether or not the engineer was negligent in failing to advise the couple about future repairs.