In a noteworthy decision, the Utah Court of Appeals has delivered a significant win for Parr Brown clients, reviving major claims arising from a catastrophic construction-site fire that destroyed a neighboring residence.
Parr Brown represented two individuals whose home was destroyed by a fire that began at a multi-story apartment project under construction in Ogden, and resulted in the tragic loss of their pets. The homeowners brought claims against the developer and contractor of the project, alleging that they failed to exercise reasonable care in securing and managing the construction site. The district court dismissed the claims, concluding that the defendants owed no duty to protect neighboring property owners from damages caused by a third party who allegedly started the fire.
On appeal, the Utah Court of Appeals reversed the district court’s summary judgment ruling and held that “landowners owe a duty to adjoining landowners and inhabitants to exercise reasonable care when they engage in construction activities on their property.” The ruling reinstates multiple claims and provides important guidance for future construction and property-damage litigation across Utah. This outcome reflects Parr Brown’s continued strength in sophisticated appellate advocacy and complex civil litigation.
The Parr Brown team of attorneys representing the homeowners includes Dick Baldwin, Steve Glauser, Daniel Sorenson, and Jonathan Schofield.
If you are evaluating a potential appeal or seeking experienced appellate counsel, contact Dick Baldwin, Chair of Parr Brown’s Appellate Practice Group, at dbaldwin@parrbrown.com or 801-257-7967.
