A landmark Denver skyscraper has been plunged into crisis after being declared 'structurally unsafe' and forcibly evacuated, with a devastating new lawsuit alleging catastrophic failures by the contractors behind a botched renovation project.
A Tower in Peril
The prominent 17-storey tower, a fixture of the Denver skyline, is now at the centre of a multi-million dollar legal battle. Its owners have filed a suit against Upton Brothers, the construction firm tasked with a significant £2.7 million ($3.5 million) upgrade, alleging their work has left the building on the brink of potential collapse.
'Structurally Unsafe and Uninhabitable'
Court documents reveal a chilling assessment from city officials, who were forced to issue an emergency evacuation order. The building was officially deemed 'structurally unsafe and uninhabitable' following an inspection that uncovered severe damage to its critical load-bearing columns on multiple floors.
The lawsuit paints a picture of sheer negligence, accusing Upton Brothers of causing 'catastrophic structural damage' through the use of 'improper equipment and methods' during the renovation. The very bones of the skyscraper were allegedly compromised, putting the entire structure at risk.
The Cost of Catastrophe
The financial fallout is immense. The building's ownership group is seeking massive damages to cover the enormous costs of repairs, the complete loss of rental income from evacuated tenants, and the devastating blow to the property's value. This incident sends a severe warning about the potential consequences of construction malpractice on urban safety.
The case continues to develop as the full extent of the damage is assessed.
