Construction Defect
California Plaintiff-Side Construction Defect Representation for High-End Residential Properties
Gibbs Giden represents California homeowners in complex, high‑value construction defect disputes involving single‑family residences, luxury estates, and custom home projects. Led by trial attorney Christopher Mass, who brings more than 34 years of plaintiff‑side construction litigation experience, our team focuses on protecting property owners from defective workmanship, unsafe conditions, and contractor misconduct.
We understand the financial, structural, and safety impacts construction defects can have on a home. Our approach combines deep technical knowledge of construction practices with strategic litigation experience to deliver efficient, results‑driven solutions for homeowners throughout Los Angeles and California.
High-End Residential Construction Defect Litigation
Our plaintiff‑side practice is built around representing homeowners in disputes involving:
- Slope failures, landslides, subsidence, and loss of lateral or subjacent support
- Retaining wall failures and improper grading
- Drainage deficiencies, water intrusion, waterproofing failures, and building envelope defects
- Foundation movement, structural cracking, and framing defects
- Roofing failures, stucco defects, and improper installation of exterior systems
- Pool construction defects, equipment pad failures, and soil movement affecting hardscape
- Neighbor disputes involving nuisance, trespass, encroachment, tree root damage, and boundary issues
We work closely with leading geotechnical engineers, structural engineers, forensic architects, and construction consultants to evaluate causation, document damage, and develop compelling expert testimony.
Specialized Plaintiff Expertise Under Business & Professions Code § 7031 (Disgorgement)
Christopher Mass is recognized statewide for his expertise in contractor licensing disputes and disgorgement actions under Business & Professions Code § 7031, including the influential case Kim v. TWA Construction, Inc. (2022) 78 Cal.App.5th 808.
We routinely pursue:
- Disgorgement of all compensation paid to unlicensed or improperly licensed contractors
- Claims under § 7160 for contractor misrepresentation and consumer fraud
- Enforcement of CSLB licensing requirements through § 17200 Unfair Competition Law actions
- Claims involving contractor bonding companies and CSLB administrative complaints
These statutory remedies often provide homeowners with powerful leverage and substantial financial recovery in construction defect disputes.
Strategic, Trial-Tested Advocacy for Homeowners
With decades of trial, arbitration, and mediation experience, we tailor our litigation strategy to the needs of each homeowner. We aggressively pursue claims when necessary, but also recognize when early resolution is in the client’s best interest. Our representation emphasizes:
- Early defect identification and evidence preservation
- Comprehensive damage assessment and cost-of-repair analysis
- Coordination with top-tier experts
- Targeted negotiation and mediation strategies
- Efficient litigation designed to maximize recovery while controlling cost
We understand the unique challenges homeowners face when construction defects threaten the safety, stability, and value of their property. Our goal is to restore that value and hold responsible parties accountable.
Neighbor Disputes and Property Damage Claims
In addition to construction defect litigation, we represent homeowners in disputes involving:
- Slope instability caused by neighboring properties
- Drainage diversion and water damage
- Encroachments, boundary line conflicts, and quiet title actions
- Tree root damage, nuisance, and trespass
- Lateral and subjacent support failures
These cases often require a combination of civil litigation, expert analysis, and strategic negotiation—areas where our experience is particularly strong.
Why Homeowners Choose Gibbs Giden
- 34+ years of plaintiff-side construction litigation experience
- Extensive trial and arbitration background
- Deep technical knowledge from nearly a decade as in-house counsel to a general contractor
- Recognized authority on contractor licensing, disgorgement, and CSLB enforcement
- Focused experience with high-end residential properties and complex defect claims
- Practical, cost-conscious strategies aligned with homeowner priorities
Protecting Your Home and Your Investment
If you are a homeowner facing construction defects, slope movement, water intrusion, or contractor misconduct anywhere in California, Gibbs Giden can evaluate your claims, explain your legal options, and develop a strategy tailored to your property and objectives. We are committed to delivering knowledgeable, practical, and effective representation at every stage of the dispute.