Great Western Buildings $50M Lawsuit Settlement, Do You Qualify for Compensation in 2025?
Great Western Buildings is facing one of the largest construction defect settlements in recent years—valued at up to $50 million. More than 20,000 property owners across the U.S. have reported structural failures, premature rusting, and warranty violations in steel buildings they were promised would be “maintenance-free.”
If you own a Great Western building, you could be eligible for compensation through the 2025 settlement process. This guide explains who qualifies, how much you may recover, and the exact steps to protect your legal rights before critical deadlines pass.
What Is the Great Western Buildings Lawsuit About?
Great Western Buildings, a steel building manufacturer in Colorado, faces a lawsuit filed by customers who claim to have been sold defective steel buildings. The customers allege that the buildings were not as durable and maintenance-free as promised, resulting in financial losses due to costly repairs and premature deterioration.
The lawsuit centers on several key allegations:
Structural Defects: Customers reported premature rusting, warping, and structural failures in buildings that were advertised as long-lasting and maintenance-free.
Misleading Marketing: The company allegedly promised durability and weather resistance that the buildings failed to deliver, leading to unexpected repair costs.
Warranty Violations: Many customers claim the company failed to honor warranty commitments when structural issues arose.
Table of Contents
Timeline of the Great Western Buildings Legal Battle
Early 2020s: Initial Complaints
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Great Western Buildings sold many pre-built steel buildings yearly to people nationwide. However, issues began surfacing decades later as buildings showed premature wear.
2022-2023: Class Action Formation
Multiple individual complaints were consolidated into a class-action lawsuit as patterns of defects became apparent across different regions and building types.
2024: Settlement Negotiations
A settlement might involve financial compensation for affected customers and commitments from Great Western Buildings to improve their products.
2025: Current Status
The case continues to evolve, with ongoing settlement discussions and new claims being filed.
Who Qualifies for the Great Western Buildings Settlement?
If you purchased a Great Western Buildings structure and experienced any of the following issues, you may be eligible for compensation:
Structural Problems:
- Premature rusting or corrosion
- Warping or buckling of steel components
- Roof or wall panel failures
- Foundation or anchor bolt issues
Financial Damages:
- Unexpected repair costs
- Replacement of building components
- Property damage from structural failures
- Loss of use during repairs
Timeline Requirements:
- Buildings purchased within the specified class period
- Documented evidence of defects
- Proof of financial losses
Understanding Your Legal Rights and Options
Warranty Claims
In response to the Great Western Buildings lawsuit, the company has firmly denied all allegations. They maintain that their buildings are constructed with high-quality materials and adhere to relevant building codes and industry standards. However, this doesn’t prevent customers from pursuing legitimate warranty claims.
Class Action Participation
Joining the class action lawsuit may provide several advantages:
- Shared legal costs
- Stronger negotiating position
- Access to expert testimony and evidence
Individual Legal Action
Some customers may benefit from filing individual lawsuits, particularly those with significant damages that exceed typical class action settlements.
The Settlement Process: What to Expect
Step 1: Documentation
Gather all relevant documents including:
- Purchase agreements and contracts
- Warranty documentation
- Photos of structural defects
- Repair estimates and invoices
- Correspondence with the company
Step 2: Claim Filing
Submit your claim through the designated settlement administrator or legal representatives handling the case.
Step 3: Evaluation
Claims are reviewed for eligibility based on:
- Purchase date and location
- Type and extent of defects
- Financial documentation of losses
Step 4: Settlement Distribution
Although not all the claims were completely paid, it gave much-needed respite. The decision established an important precedent: manufacturers have an implicit responsibility to their customers for product quality.
Potential Compensation and Remedies
Based on similar construction defect cases, compensation may include:
Direct Financial Compensation:
- Reimbursement for repair costs
- Partial refunds of purchase price
- Replacement building components
Future Protection:
- Extended warranty coverage
- Improved building materials
- Regular inspection services
Additional Benefits:
- Legal fee reimbursement
- Expert inspection services
- Priority customer service
How to Protect Your Rights Moving Forward
Document Everything
Keep detailed records of:
- All communications with Great Western Buildings
- Photos and videos of defects
- Repair estimates and completed work
- Impact on property use and value
Act Quickly
Legal claims often have strict deadlines. Don’t delay in:
- Reporting defects to the company
- Consulting with legal counsel
- Filing necessary paperwork
Stay Informed
Monitor case developments through:
- Court filings and updates
- Settlement administrator notifications
- Legal counsel communications
What Great Western Buildings Is Doing in Response
In the heart of Aurora, Colorado, a longstanding player in the steel building industry, Great Western Buildings, finds itself entangled in a legal quagmire. The company has taken several steps to address customer concerns:
Quality Improvements: Implementation of enhanced manufacturing processes and quality control measures.
Customer Service Enhancement: Expanded customer support and warranty service capabilities.
Settlement Cooperation: Participation in good-faith settlement negotiations to resolve customer claims.
Expert Legal Perspective on the Case
A seminal case in the fields of corporate social responsibility and property law is the Great Western Buildings lawsuit dispute. Legal experts note that this case highlights important consumer protection principles in the construction industry.
The case underscores manufacturers’ responsibility to deliver products that meet advertised specifications and durability claims. It also emphasizes the importance of honoring warranty commitments and maintaining transparent customer communications.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my building is covered by the lawsuit?
If you purchased a Great Western Buildings structure and experienced premature deterioration, structural defects, or warranty issues, you may be eligible. Contact the settlement administrator or consult with legal counsel for case-specific guidance.
What if I already paid for repairs?
You may still be eligible for reimbursement of repair costs. Maintain all documentation of expenses and work performed, as this will be crucial for your claim.
How long do I have to file a claim?
Deadlines vary depending on your specific situation and jurisdiction. It’s essential to act promptly and consult with legal counsel to ensure you don’t miss important filing deadlines.
Can I still use my building while the lawsuit is pending?
In most cases, yes. However, if you have safety concerns about structural integrity, consult with a qualified engineer and consider temporary alternatives if necessary.
What if Great Western Buildings goes out of business?
Class action settlements often include provisions for continued compensation even in cases of business closure. Insurance coverage and asset preservation measures may protect claimants’ interests.
How much compensation can I expect?
Settlement amounts vary based on factors including:
- Extent of structural defects
- Financial losses incurred
- Building size and purchase price
- Documentation quality
Taking Action: Next Steps for Affected Customers
If you believe you may have a claim in the Great Western Buildings lawsuit:
- Gather Documentation: Collect all relevant purchase, warranty, and repair documents.
- Document Current Conditions: Take detailed photos and videos of any structural issues.
- Consult Legal Counsel: Speak with attorneys experienced in construction defect and class action litigation.
- Stay Connected: Register for case updates through the settlement administrator or legal representatives.
- Protect Your Property: Address any immediate safety concerns while preserving evidence of defects.
The Broader Impact on the Construction Industry
As the Great Western Buildings lawsuit progresses through the legal labyrinth, it underscores the necessity for transparency, integrity, and accountability in the construction industry. This case serves as a reminder that manufacturers must stand behind their products and honor commitments to customers.
The precedent set by this lawsuit may influence how other construction companies approach quality control, warranty services, and customer communications. It reinforces the principle that consumers have the right to receive products that meet advertised specifications and performance standards.
Conclusion: Your Path to Resolution
The Great Western Buildings lawsuit represents a significant opportunity for affected customers to seek compensation and hold the company accountable for alleged product defects. Whether through the class action settlement or individual legal action, customers have multiple avenues for pursuing their rights.
The key to success is acting promptly, maintaining thorough documentation, and working with experienced legal counsel who understands construction defect litigation. By taking proactive steps and staying informed about case developments, affected customers can position themselves for the best possible outcome.
Remember that every situation is unique, and the information in this guide should not replace personalized legal advice. If you believe you have been affected by issues with a Great Western Buildings structure, consult with qualified legal counsel to discuss your specific circumstances and options.
About the Author
Sarah Klein, JD, is a licensed attorney and legal content strategist with over 12 years of experience across civil, criminal, family, and regulatory law. At All About Lawyer, she covers a wide range of legal topics — from high-profile lawsuits and courtroom stories to state traffic laws and everyday legal questions — all with a focus on accuracy, clarity, and public understanding.
Her writing blends real legal insight with plain-English explanations, helping readers stay informed and legally aware.
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