CLRA Claim Against Monier
   McAdams decision.pdf

Some property owners, whose roofs were tiled with Monier, Inc. or Monier Roof Tile, Inc. roof tiles, noticed their once red or brown colored tiles were fading, so much so that many of the same tiles are now concrete-colored gray. Claims have been asserted in the form of a class action litigation alleging, that Monier's advertising, and product literature, painted a different story. Monier claimed that the tiles would last for many years, and that the color would stay the same:

Q. "Will the color last as long as your tile?"
A. "Red tiles will remain red and brown tiles will remain brown."
(Frequently Asked Questions, Monier's advertising).

It is also alleged that the tiles' color not only gives way dramatically in only a few years, but that the surface of the tiles erode and weather away, leaving no protective glaze, no color, and just plain white or gray concrete.

Plaintiffs contend that Monier was and is aware of this problem. Monier's warranty has changed over time, specifically to limit claims as to the color loss and erosion issues, and the plaintiffs allege that this is indicative of knowledge of the problem. Monier's response to those who have complained, to the extent publicly disseminated, is essentially to tell the homeowners to pay for any recoating or recoloring themselves. Plaintiffs contend that this position is contrary to their express sales representations and to the language of some of the warranties, which claimed no coating or color loss for up to 50 years.

In a December, 2005 decision in the California Superior Court, Placer County, Plaintiffs' request for certification of certain claims to proceed as a class action on behalf of a certain purchasers and owners of Monier tiles was denied. However, Plaintiffs believe that the decision was not in keeping with applicable law, and intend to appeal the decision. the appeal probably not be decided by the Court of Appeal, Third Appellate District until later this year.

If you wish to find out more about the litigation, or report the condition of your Monier roof and experience with us, please visit the links above.