Lane Community College’s property insurer, Property and Casualty Coverage for Education, has taken legal action against two construction firms, Harvey & Price Co. and Fortis Construction Inc., over a costly water‑line failure that damaged classrooms and offices in the college’s Health Professions Building.
Allegations of negligence
The lawsuit, filed on September 18, 2026 in the Lane County Circuit Court, claims the contractors should have known that the water supply line on the building’s third floor was not installed correctly. According to the complaint, the faulty installation caused a pipe to separate in September 2024, releasing water that flooded multiple rooms and required extensive repairs.
Financial impact and insurance payout
The water leak forced the college to close affected spaces while repairs were made, disrupting classes and administrative work. The insurer paid the college for the immediate damage, but now seeks reimbursement of at least $1.4 million from the contractors to cover the costs it incurred.
Background on the project
Harvey & Price Co. and Fortis Construction Inc. were hired to perform work on the Health Professions Building, a key facility for nursing, radiology and allied‑health programs. The lawsuit alleges that the contractors failed to follow proper installation standards for the water line, a lapse that the insurer says constitutes negligence.
Response from the defendants
Both firms have declined to comment publicly on the pending litigation. Their legal counsel is expected to file a response in the coming weeks, which may include defenses based on contract terms, scope of work, or alleged compliance with industry standards.
Implications for the college and local contractors
While the case is still in its early stages, the lawsuit underscores the importance of rigorous oversight on construction projects that affect public‑service facilities. Lane Community College officials have emphasized their commitment to maintaining safe, functional learning environments and will continue to work with insurers and contractors to prevent future incidents.
Local observers note that the outcome could have broader ramifications for construction firms operating in the region, especially those handling infrastructure for educational institutions. The case also highlights the role of property insurers in holding contractors accountable for workmanship that leads to costly damage.
Original reporting: Homepage – Lookout Eugene-Springfield — read the source article.
