The CRA held its first Southern California Regional Meeting on May 26 at Abatix Corp, in Santa Fe Springs. Ed Cross, the “Restoration Lawyer” was the presenter at this event, speaking on topics such as collections, contract drafting and mold litigation.

Cross was involved in the drafting of IICRC standards and has handled thousands of cases on behalf of cleaning and restoration contractors involving pricing disputes, workmanship issues and mold claims. He identified types of contract clauses that significantly increase the potential monetary recovery from customers who fail to pay and outlined a step-by-step approach to maintain appropriate pressure to accelerate collections. He explained some misunderstood points with regard to California’s three-day right to cancel and its mechanic’s lien laws, and also explained serious legal ramifications (including punitive damages) against policyholders who abscond with insurance loss drafts intended for contractors.

Cross discussed the law of unjust enrichment, which can be used by a service provider to disgorge insurance payments from mortgage companies, even if the mortgage is in arrears. Finally, he gave an update on the current status of mold litigation nationwide. Although the number of mold claims filed is down compared to five years ago, Cross explained that mold litigation is alive and well, and that mold claimants have achieved several large jury verdicts in the last year. However, depending on the company’s size and business model, it may or may not be advisable to buy pollution liability coverage. Cross can be reached at (760) 773-4002 or ehc@edcross.com.

Upcoming Courses

JUNE 7-10 AMRT – Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
Location: Abatix Corp., Los Angeles, CA
Instructor: John Banta

JUNE 13-17 CDS – Commercial Drying Specialist
Location: Restoration Consultants, Sacramento, CA
Instructor: Jim Holland

JUNE 20-21 FSRT – Fire and Smoke Restoration Technician
Location: Restoration Consultants, Sacramento, CA
Instructor: Jessika James

Registration and more information on these courses can be found at http://www.crassociation.org/training-and-events. For more information on courses, events, or the benefits of CRA please contact the Member Services Coordinator Jennifer Germond at (916) 736-1100 ext 302 or jgermond@crassociation.org.