ST. PAUL, Minn., March 31, 2009 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Zurn Pex, Inc., ("Zurn") a manufacturer of PEX plumbing systems, now faces eleven class action lawsuits for leaking brass fittings used in its plumbing systems. Homeowners have filed class action lawsuits against Zurn in Minnesota (three), Colorado, Montana, North Dakota, Alabama, Louisiana, North Carolina (two) and Virginia. More suits are expected. Plumbing fittings made by Zurn can be identified by a "QPEX" stamp on the fitting.
According to one of the homeowners' attorneys, Shawn Raiter, problems with Zurn's brass fittings can cause significant damage to homes. "Water damage from a total failure, or even a slow leak, can cause serious damage. A large percentage of the brass fittings in a typical residential PEX system are hidden behind drywall or between floors. If undetected, water damage from a leaking fitting can be substantial."
Zurn has reportedly sold these brass PEX fittings across the country. Through information obtained in the lawsuits, Raiter estimates that Zurn has received thousands of warranty claims for leaking or cracked fittings. Because of these premature failures, Zurn no longer recommends installation of the brass fittings in certain geographic areas.
Some plumbers have had Zurn fittings leak or crack in 200 or more different properties. And while Zurn initially honored its warranty and covered the damage caused by the leaking brass fittings, the company stopped paying claims, leaving homeowners and plumbers to pay for the damage themselves.
The lawsuits seek damages to pay for the complete replacement of all brass Zurn fittings for PEX systems, regardless of whether those fittings have already failed, as a way to prevent damage caused by future leaks and failures. They also seek to compensate plumbers and others who have paid for repairs or damage caused by the Zurn fittings.
The lawyers recommend that both plumbers who have had problems with Zurn fittings and owners of properties with Zurn PEX systems contact them to discuss their rights. "It is important that consumers are aware of this lawsuit. If consumers provide their contact information, we can keep them informed about the status of the litigation. Also, if the lawsuit is successful -- by settlement or judgment -- contact information can help us notify consumers how to obtain their share of any recovery," said Shawn Raiter.
More information about the lawsuit may be obtained at www.zurnclassaction.com
Identifying Zurn fittings: Look for: QPEX stamp in the side of the brass fitting