Condo Owners OK $4-Million Defect Settlement
An Aliso Viejo community association, Village Niguel Terrace II, agreed to a $4.1-million settlement of its lawsuit alleging the 243-unit condominium development had construction defects, a lawyer representing the homeowners said Thursday.
The suit, brought in November 1997 against Shappell Industries and its S&S; Construction unit, one of the region’s largest home builders, was settled through out-of-court mediation, said attorney Christopher Coglianese.
The companies, their insurers and several subcontractors will contribute to the settlement, Coglianese said. A lawyer representing the builder could not be reached.
The suit alleged that roofs and windows leaked and that decks didn’t drain properly, causing deterioration. The suit also contended that asphalt streets within the complex were deteriorating prematurely.
“The board and our entire community are very pleased with the end result,” said Jim Pietka, president of the condominium’s community association.
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