Stucco Damage
Florida is one of the warm-weather locations in the United States in which stucco, the plaster commonly comprised of a mix of sand, cement, lime, and water, is the dominant exterior for many residential and commercial construction projects. For many people, stucco is an attractive option because it is cost-effective, fire resistant, and seemingly durable.
When stucco is improperly installed, however, it can lead to very serious—and expensive—problems for home or commercial property owners. Tampa and Florida have requirements relating to stucco installation outlined in their respective building codes, and a negligent party may be liable for the costs of all repairs when stucco beings cracking, having moisture issues, or results in other damage.
Tampa Stucco Damage Lawyer
If your home or commercial property is being affected by improperly installed stucco, it is in your best interest to retain legal counsel as soon as possible. Germain Law Group, P.A. assists clients throughout Pinellas County, Brevard County, Hillsborough County, Manatee County, and Pasco County.
Michael B. Germain is an experienced insurance lawyer in Tampa who has received Martindale-Hubbell’s AV Preeminent Rating, the highest possible rating in both legal ability and ethical standard. He can review your case and answer all of your legal questions when you call (813) 835-8888 to schedule a free initial consultation.
Overview of Stucco Damage in Hillsborough County
- Is Stucco Damage Covered by Homeowners Insurance?
- What Are Examples of Stucco Damage?
- How Does Stucco Damage Happen?
- Where Can I Find Out More Information About Stucco Damage in Hillsborough County?
Is Stucco Damage Covered by Homeowners Insurance?
You’ve noticed stucco damage on your home, but you might not be entirely sure if your insurance covers it. Many factors go into determining whether you’re covered for stucco damage under your homeowner’s insurance. If your stucco damage was due to poor installation, then you may be covered for it under water damage if that’s included in your policy. However, most homeowner’s insurance policies don’t cover water damage.
That doesn’t mean you aren’t covered though. Many stucco-related cases are covered by homeowner’s insurance if there was a problem during inspection when the home was purchased or after installation. No matter the circumstances, it’s recommended you hire an experienced insurance lawyer to examine your policy. They can comb through the terms and determine if an argument for stucco damage coverage exists.
Types of Stucco Damage in Florida
While stucco can withstand many different weather elements, improperly installed stucco can show signs of damage. In some cases, the improper installation can result in additional home damage that costs homeowners several thousands of dollars to resolve.
Some of the most common kinds of stucco damage resulting from improper installation can include:
- Cracking, peeling, or bubbling paint;
- Cracks in drywall;
- Cracks in dressing bands around windows;
- Exterior Insulating and Finish System (EIFS) coming loose (delamination);
- Increased humidity within home;
- Loss of structural integrity;
- Mold, mildew, or fungi growth;
- Termites, ants, or other insects;
- Toxic mold growth;
- Water intrusion; or
- Wood trim rotting.
Causes of Stucco Damage in Hillsborough County
Many stucco damage claims relate to improper stucco installation. An attorney can investigate how your stucco was installed and hold the negligent party accountable for any resulting problems.
A few examples of common causes of stucco problems in the Tampa area include, but are not limited to:
- Corroded wire lath;
- Failure to use expansion joints;
- Improperly installed doors or windows;
- Improperly installed wainscots;
- Improperly joined banding detail;
- Inadequate attachment of wire lath to studs;
- Inadequate sealants or flashings;
- Insufficient embedment of wire lath into stucco;
- Missing or buried weep screeds;
- Missing or insufficient weep systems;
- Moisture barrier blocked or damaged; or
- Unsealed holes, rips, or tears in building paper.
Stucco Damage Resources in Florida
Chapter 5 Building Code | City of Tampa — View the full text of the City of Tampa Building Code. View rules of construction and a list of approved materials and equipment. Application of stucco or siding covering an area, not in excess of 500 square feet is exempt from the permit requirements of this code.
Construction Services
Planning and Development Department
1400 North Blvd.
Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 274-3100
Chapter 14 Exterior Walls | 2017 Florida Building Code — View the full text of the chapter of the Florida Building Code establishing the minimum requirements for exterior walls. Three-coat work over stucco or exterior cement plaster must have a minimum thickness of 0.875 inches when it is a metal plaster base or 0.625 inches when it is unit masonry, cast-in-place, or precast concrete. Two-coat work over stucco must have a minimum thickness of 0.5 inches when it is unit masonry or 0.375 inches when it is cast-in-place or precast concrete.
Stucco Damage Lawyer in Tampa, FL
Are you dealing with any kind of problem relating to the stucco on your home? You will want to immediately contact Germain Law Group, P.A., as you may only have a limited amount of time to take legal action.
Tampa insurance attorney Michael B. Germain represents homeowners in St. Lucie County, Charlotte County, Hillsborough County, Indian River County, Sarasota County, and many other nearby communities.
Call (813) 835-8888 or fill out an online contact form to have our lawyer provide a complete evaluation of your case during a free, confidential consultation.