GRETNA – A Jefferson Parish homeowner is suing an elevation company after a hydraulic pump failed during a home elevation allegedly causing the home to partially collapse.
Barbara Lamothe filed suit against Elevations Shoring LLC in the 24th Judicial District Court on April 4.
Lamothe claims that on Feb. 1, 2011 she entered into a $160,000 contract with Elevations Shoring to elevate her home located at 1804 Wellington Drive in Marrero within a period of 60 days. The plaintiff alleges during the process of lifting the home a hydraulic pump failed and part of the home collapsed resulting in extensive and severe damage to the structure.
Lamothe claims cracks in the foundation, cracks to the interior and exterior walls, separation of the wood beams from the ceiling, an altered handicap ramp, changes in the mortar and bricks, damage to garage and French doors and changes to the aesthetic value of the home. The plaintiff claims the building permit was issued in November 2011 and expired in January 2012, but the elevation still is not completed.
The defendant is accused of improper use of house raising equipment, failing to check pumps for defects before use, failing to discover any defects in pump equipment, failing to take corrective measures should the pump fail, negligent use of the pump, improper use of pump equipment, failing to perform all work in a workmanlike manner, failing to properly and correctly institute the leveling process, failing to repair the damage caused by house lifting, failing to complete the contracted work, failing to complete the work within the 60 day contracted schedule, failing to restore the lawn to an acceptable grade, failing to remove trash and debris from the construction site, failing to complete the contracted work as per contract and failing to complete the repairs caused by the pump failure.
An unspecified amount in damages is sought for loss of value of home, repair costs, mental anguish, diminution of property value and inconvenience.
Lamothe is represented by attorney Robert G. Harvey of New Orleans.
The case has been assigned to Division H Judge Glenn B. Ansardi.
Case no. 725-541.
Elevation company sued after hydraulic pump allegedly fails during home lift
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