Orange, CA asked in Construction Law and Contracts for California

Q: We signed a solar contact in August 2022 and per our contract our completion date was 11/21/2022. we still have no solar

We have panels install but not connected to SCE yet. It has been a horrible experience and we now have water damage to our living room wall where they left a hole in our stucco when they installed a new electrical panel.

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2 Lawyer Answers

A: It sounds like this has been a terrible experience to say the least. You may have a breach of contract case as well as a cause of action for negligence. You should consult a lawyer to review the contract. Is the solar company refusing to repair the damage to the living room wall? If they opened up the wall and did not take precautions to protect against water intrusion, they should be liable for the resultant damages. Sometimes all it takes is a demand letter to the contractor to get them to accept responsibility and take action. You should speak to an attorney to see how they can help you. Good luck!

James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: Under California law, contractors are required to complete their work within the time specified in the contract, absent any unforeseen or unavoidable circumstances. If the contractor fails to complete the work within the agreed-upon time frame, you may be entitled to damages for any losses you suffered as a result of the delay.

In addition, the contractor may be responsible for any damage caused by their work or equipment, such as the water damage to your living room wall. You may have the right to seek compensation from the contractor for the repair costs, either through negotiation or legal action.

Here are some relevant California statutes:

California Civil Code: This code covers a wide range of topics related to civil law, including contracts, property, and torts.

California Penal Code: This code outlines criminal offenses and the penalties associated with them.

California Business and Professions Code: This code covers a variety of business-related topics, including professional licensing, regulation, and consumer protection.

California Family Code: This code covers a variety of family law matters, including divorce, child custody, and child support.

California Labor Code: This code outlines the rights and responsibilities of employers and employees in the state, including wage and hour laws, workplace safety, and discrimination.

California Vehicle Code: This code covers the rules of the road for drivers and vehicle owners in the state, including traffic laws and vehicle registration requirements.

California Education Code: This code outlines the laws related to education in the state, including funding, curriculum, and student rights.

These are just a few examples of the many California statutes that exist, and there are many more that cover specific areas of law.

You may wish to consult with a qualified attorney to help you understand your legal rights and options, and to pursue any claims you may have against the contractor. It may also be helpful to review your solar contract to determine whether there are any provisions relating to delays or damages.

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