Real estate broker accuses Lennar of doing shoddy work in Stuart
A real estate broker Tuesday accused Lennar Homes of shoddy workmanship at three homes in the Martin's Crossing subdivision on Kanner Highway, including roof and electrical problems he called potentially life-threatening...In addition, Morgan charged that stucco installed on the houses was too thin and probably would lead to moisture behind the walls and ultimately mold. "I'm here to ask, 'How in the world did these homes pass county inspection?'" Morgan said.

Real estate broker accuses Lennar of doing shoddy work in Stuart

By GEORGE ANDREASSI
This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
June 7, 2006
STUART — A real estate broker Tuesday accused Lennar Homes of shoddy workmanship at three homes in the Martin's Crossing subdivision on Kanner Highway, including roof and electrical problems he called potentially life-threatening.

Speaking during a Martin County Commission meeting, broker Mike Morgan said he is filing complaints against Lennar Homes with the state Department of Building and Professional Regulation, the Florida Attorney General and the Federal Trade Commission.

Inspections of the three houses on Fleming Way showed defective roofs with loose and broken tiles and incorrect installation that might not be able to withstand a hurricane, Morgan charged.

Morgan also argued the inspections found defective electrical work with voltage drops that could spark a fire.

In addition, Morgan charged that stucco installed on the houses was too thin and probably would lead to moisture behind the walls and ultimately mold.

"I'm here to ask, 'How in the world did these homes pass county inspection?'" Morgan said.

Martin County Commission Lee Weberman expressed confidence in the county's building inspectors, but asked County Administrator Duncan Ballantyne to look into Morgan's allegations.

Mark Sustana, general counsel for Lennar Homes, said the company has confidence in the quality of the workmanship of the homes, but would correct any problems that are verified.

Sustana also said Morgan has made claims for compensation from Lennar Homes.

Despite the problems Lennar Homes has had at Martin's Crossing, including the freeze placed on 30 houses because of water supply issues, Sustana said the company would continue looking for opportunities in Martin County.

Contacted after Tuesday's meeting, County Building Department Director Larry Massing said he had not received the complaints about the homes or received copies of the inspection reports from Morgan.

"To be fair to all parties, you've got to give us an opportunity to investigate it," Massing said.
http://www.tcpalm.com/tcp/local_news/article/0,2545,TCP_16736_4754297,00.html