This case already has a stink about it.
Contractors and consumers have joined as a class to sue a Sebring-based septic tank manufacturer, claiming the company has been selling a defective product.
Alpha General Services spoiled its relationship with its distributor and installation network — notably Southland Septic in West Palm Beach and Environmental Control Systems in Loxahatchee — after they recognized a pattern of defective tanks and tried to get the manufacturer to do something.
After failed mediation attempts with consumers, the contractors offered replacement tanks but with the same design flaws.
Leopold Law of Palm Beach Gardens filed a lawsuit Friday in Palm Beach Circuit Court, claiming the alleged defect is costing consumers economic losses and posing a health hazard.
The lawsuit claims the tanks crack in the same location, and the tank thickness does not meet Florida Department of Health requirements.
"The manufacturer has knowingly designed and marketed a product that is detrimental to the health and safety of families throughout the state," Leopold said. "Alpha is trying to shirk responsibility for their poor product by shifting blame to the contractors who got saddled with a defective tank."
Alpha General president Richard LaPadula had no comment by deadline.
A septic tank that is not pumped every one to three years is at risk of developing an overload of waste sludge. A small septic tank that is in use a lot will require more tank pumping service.
Posted by: plumbing fittings | February 28, 2012 at 09:19 AM