Landmark Inspections is pleased to offer Expert Witness services to property owners and their Attorneys who are involved in a dispute concerning improper construction or renovation methods or materials, Failure to Disclose at sale, or other similar matters.

Unfortunately, there are quite a few bad contractors out there. Some are ripoff artists or con men. Most are just incompetent, or take on projects they do not have the skills to complete properly. Either way, the end results are the same:

1. Quality of work is not acceptable.

2. Work is never completed.

3. Work takes much longer than originally expected.

4. Contractor goes out of business.

Sellers are required by Ohio law to disclose all known defects, but this does not always happen. The principal of Caveat Emptor, Latin for "Buyer Beware", makes it the complainants (Buyers) responsibility to prove that the seller knew of any defect which becomes evident after the property is sold.

Landmark will thoroughly inspect and assess the project, and prepare a written report which includes Observations, Conclusions, Recommendations, and Estimated Costs to Correct. All observations will be corroborated by digital photographs. Both printed and electronic copies of all photos are included with the report.

Landmark Inspections will appear in Court as an Expert Witness to provide testimony to the written findings, if necessary. We will also attend meetings, hearings, in the same capacity.

As Chief Building Inspector and Building Commissioner for the City of Maple Heights for many years, Mr. Balester represented that City in courts ranging from Mayors Court, to the Garfield Heights Municipal court, the Cuyahoga County Court, and the U.S. Federal Court, as both complainant and defendant.

During that time, Mr. Balester personally authored legislation which resulted in many City ordinance changes dealing with City Building and Property Maintenance Codes, Zoning Codes, Soil Maintenance and Erosion Controls, and locally implemented Ohio EPA regulations.

Mr. Balester is experienced, comfortable and conversant in most aspects of the legal issues surrounding construction and real estate.

Fees

Site visit, inspection and written report with photos     $325 minimum

Court, Meeting, Hearing, etc.                                      $125 first hour, 
                                                                                        $85 each add’l hour,  
                                                                                              or fraction thereof