A Delray Beach couple has filed a lawsuit seeking damages for injuries allegedly caused by negligent roofing work. The complaint, filed by Mona Efland and her husband Barry N. Efland in the Circuit Court of the 15th Judicial Circuit in Palm Beach County, Florida on June 5, 2024, names Carlos M. Gonzalez and Gustafson Industries, Inc. as defendants.
According to the court documents, the plaintiffs contracted with Gonzalez and Gustafson Industries for roofing services at their home located at 16064 Brier Creek Drive. During the course of the work, the defendants allegedly failed to use proper roofing cover material while the roof was exposed to the elements. This negligence purportedly led to water seeping through the ceiling and onto the floor, causing Mona Efland to slip and sustain serious injuries.
The complaint outlines that Carlos M. Gonzalez was responsible for ensuring that appropriate roofing materials were used to prevent water damage. "Defendant failed to perform services in a reasonable and safe manner," states one section of the filing. It further accuses Gonzalez of failing to lay proper tarps on the roof, which directly resulted in water seeping into their home.
Similarly, Gustafson Industries is accused of failing to utilize proper roofing cover material while performing services on the plaintiffs' roof. The company also allegedly did not ensure that water was prevented from seeping through into their home during this period. As a result of these failures, Mona Efland slipped on water that had dripped from the exposed roof and sustained severe injuries.
The plaintiffs claim that both defendants breached their duty of care by not performing their work safely and prudently. They argue that these breaches have led to significant physical harm for Mona Efland, including permanent injuries and an impaired ability to work. Furthermore, Barry N. Efland asserts that he has incurred medical expenses for his wife's treatment and suffered economic losses due to her diminished companionship.
In terms of relief sought, Mona and Barry N. Efland are asking for damages exceeding $50,000 plus interest and costs. They are also demanding a jury trial for all issues triable by jury as a matter of right.
Representing the plaintiffs are attorneys Marc A. Kaufman and H. Seth Rosenthal from Marc A. Kaufman & Associates based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.