Reporting Construction Fraud in Public Works Projects
California Whistleblower Attorneys
Public works fraud not only lines the pocket of rich companies with undeserved tax dollars, but it can also put the public and workers at risk.
Public works fraud can include:
- Improper or unsafe construction techniques (such as the improper mixture of concrete, failing to use the right kind of rebar or reinforcing steel) can lead to building failure, bridge collapse, or accelerated decay
- Failure to vibrate concrete can result in air bubbles that weaken a structure
- Falsifying the data of a core sample that shows whether materials are properly hardened can hide structural problems
- Faulty electrical work or plumbing, or improper installation of fire safety systems can result in damage to the building, to workers, and to the public
Other kinds of construction contract fraud include:
- Billing for labor and materials, work or equipment that was not used on the job
- Using non-union labor when union labor was required under the construction contract
- Failing to pay the prevailing wage under the contract wage rate
- Falsification of minority business ownership requirements or lack of involvement of minority “owner”
- Failing to follow OSHA safety requirements creating an unsafe work environment
- Falsification of energy certification or Title 24 standards
- Material falsification by claiming to use green building products when none were used
Who Typically Reports Construction Fraud to the Government?
Potential construction whistleblowers include laborers, safety engineers, resident engineers, foremen, construction supervisors, floor people, construction superintendents, quality control inspectors, business analysts, billing supervisors, purchasing departments, accounts receivable clerks, accounts payable clerks, accountants, and financial officers.
If you are ready to blow the whistle on construction fraud involving public works or unsafe buildings, contact The Dolan Law Firm to talk confidentially and at no cost with a lawyer.
If your case involves government money the attorneys at The Dolan Law Firm can explain the process of bringing a whistleblower case under the federal False Claims Act or California Qui Tam law.
Even if government money is not involved but you are aware of construction safety issues that endanger the public or workers on the job site, you may have a right to bring legal action. Talk to a lawyer at our office to learn more about your options for reporting wrongdoing.
If you are ready to report fraudulent or illegal acts involving building or road construction public works contracts, contact the San Francisco law office of The Dolan Law Firm.
All whistleblower cases are handled on a contingency fee basis. You pay no attorney fees until the case has been brought to court and you have received an award.
