HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-3703COZEN O'CONNOR
BY: SEAN P. O'DONNELL
Atty. Regis. #76533
1900 Market Street
The Atrium - Third Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 665-2733
TIMOTHY AND LESLIE THUMMA
1512 Inverness Drive
Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania 17050
and
UNITRIN AUTO & HOME INSURANCE
COMPANY a/s/o Timothy and Leslie Thumma
5220 Belfort Road
Jacksonville, FL 32256-6017
Plaintiffs
V,
HAUBERT HOMES, INC.
15 Central Boulevard
Camp Hill, Pennsylvania 17011
and
STEVEN PROUGH individually and d/b/a
PROUGH ELECTRIC
RR 2 Box 99
Mount Union, Pennsylvania 17066
Defendants
Attorneys for Plaintiff
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
FOR CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION NO. Q S?' 37n C4-;? t .1„
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
NOTICE TO DEFEND
You have been sued in Court. If you wish to defend against the claim set forth in the
following pages, you must take action within twenty (20) days after this Complaint and Notice
are served, by entering a written appearance personally, or via attorney, and filing in writing,
with the Court, your defenses or objections to the claims set forth against you. You are warned
that if you fail to do so, the case may proceed without you, and a judgment may be entered
against you by the Court without further notice for any money claimed in the Complaint or for
any other claim or relief requested by the Plaintiff. You may lose money or other rights
important to you. YOU SHOULD TAKE THIS PAPER TO YOUR LAWYER AT ONCE. IF
YOU DO NOT HAVE A LAWYER, OR CANNOT AFFORD ONE, GO TO OR TELEPHONE
THE OFFICE SET FORTH BELOW TO FIND OUT WHERE YOU CAN GET LEGAL HELP.
Cumberland County Bar Association
2 Liberty Avenue
Carlisle, PA 17013
(717) 249-3166
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COZEN O'CONNOR
BY: SEAN P. O'DONNELL
Atty. Regis. 976533
1900 Market Street
The Atrium - Third Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 665-2733
Attorneys for Plaintiff
TIMOTHY AND LESLIE THUMMA
1512 Inverness Drive
Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania 17050
and
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
FOR CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION NO. ps"- .37o3 (' ;' 4 ` 0
UNITRIN AUTO & HOME INSURANCE
COMPANY a/s/o Timothy and Leslie Thumma
5220 Belfort Road
Jacksonville, FL 32256-6017 : JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
Plaintiffs
V.
HAUBERT HOMES, INC.
15 Central Boulevard
Camp Hill, Pennsylvania 17011
and
STEVEN PROUGH individually and d/b/a
PROUGH ELECTRIC
RR 2 Box 99
Mount Union, Pennsylvania 17066
Defendants
COMPLAINT
1. Plaintiffs, TIMOTHY AND LESLIE THUMMA, are citizens of the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania who at all relevant times resided at 1512 Inverness Drive,
Mechanicsburg, PA 17050.
2. Plaintiff UNITRIN AUTO & HOME INSURANCE COMPANY (hereinafter
"UNITRIN"), formerly trading as Kemper Auto & Home Insurance Company, is a corporation
duly organized and existing under the laws of the State of New York, with a principal place of
business located at 5220 Belfort Road, Jacksonville, Florida, which at all relevant times was
authorized to issue insurance policies in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
3. Defendant, HAUBERT HOMES, INC. (hereinafter "HAUBERT"), is a
corporation organized and existing under the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, with a
principal place of business located at 15 Central Boulevard, Camp Hill, Pennsylvania 17011.
4. At all relevant times, HAUBERT was engaged in the business of developing
and constructing residential real estate and custom houses, including the Fairwinds Development
in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania.
5. Defendant STEVEN PROUGH d/b/a PROUGH ELECTRIC (hereinafter
"PROUGH ELECTRIC") is an individual operating an electrical contracting business under the
fictitious name "Prough Electric" with a place of business located at of RR 2 Box 99, Mount
Union, Pennsylvania 17066.
6. Upon information and belief, defendant HAUBERT designed and built the
Thummas' house at 1512 Inverness Drive, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania (the "house") as part of
its Fairwinds Development project.
7. Upon information and belief, defendant HAUBERT contracted with defendant
PROUGH ELECTRIC to install the electrical service and wiring in the subject house.
8. At all relevant times, TIMOTHY and LESLIE ANN THUMMA owned the
real and personal property at 1512 Inverness Drive, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, which they
purchased from defendant HAUBERT.
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9. On or about March 12, 2004, afire occurred at the Thummas' house, causing
fire and smoke damage throughout the residence.
10. As a result of the fire, the Thummas sustained severe and extensive damage to
their real and personal property and additional living expenses.
11. At all times relevant, plaintiff UNITRIN insured plaintiffs TIMOTHY AND
LESLIE THUMMA pursuant to policy number PZ034339.
12. Pursuant to its policy of insurance, UNITRIN paid TIMOTHY AND LESLIE
THUMMA in excess of $350,000.00 to repair and replace their damaged property and, therefore,
UNITRIN is legally and contractually subrogated to their rights to the extent of its payments.
13. The Thummas sustained damages in excess of the amounts paid by UNITRIN.
COUNT I-NEGLIGENCE
PLAINTIFFS V. HAUBERT HOMES. INC.
14. Plaintiffs incorporate by reference each and every allegation set forth above as
though fully set forth herein at length.
15. As the general contractor and developer that designed and constructed the
subject house, defendant HAUBERT owed plaintiffs a duty to construct the house in a good, safe
and workmanlike manner, and free from hazardous defects that could cause fires.
16. The fire and the resulting damages were directly and proximately caused by
the negligence, carelessness, and negligent acts and/or omissions of defendant HAUBERT, its
agents, servants and/or employees acting within the course and scope of their employment, both
generally and in the following particulars:
(a) failing to properly design and install the electrical system, including all
wiring in the house;
-3-
(b) failing to properly inspect the electrical wiring at the subject house to
insure that it was installed properly in accordance with all applicable codes, and safely;
(c) failing to perform its work and services in a good and workmanlike
manner and in accordance with all applicable building and electrical codes and standards, and
industry custom and practice;
(d) improperly installing the electrical system and wiring in a manner that
created a risk of fire;
(e) failing to properly install the circuits and conductors running through
the studs of the exterior wall of the residence;
(f) failing to properly supervise and inspect the work its sub-contractors,
including Prough Electric, performed at the house;
(g) failing to properly hire and supervise its subcontractors;
(h) installing improper, defective, old and/or damaged circuits and wiring
in the house; and
(i) failing to take all precautions necessary to prevent the electrical wiring
in the house from causing a fire.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs, TIMOTHY AND LESLIE THUMMA and UNITRIN
AUTO & HOME INSURANCE COMPANY, demand judgment against Defendant, HAUBERT
HOMES, INC., jointly and severally, in an amount in excess of $363,965.00, together with delay
damages, interest, and the cost of this action.
COUNT II - BREACH OF IMPLIED WARRANTY OF HABITABILITY
PLAINTIFFS V. HAUBERT HOMES, INC.
17. Plaintiffs incorporate by reference each and every allegation set forth above as
though fully set forth herein at length.
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18. By building and selling the subject house, defendant HAUBERT impliedly
warranted that the house was constructed in a good, safe and workmanlike manner, and free from
material defects and hazardous conditions, including fire hazards, and habitable.
19. Defendant HAUBERT breached its implied warranty of habitability by
building and selling a house that was unsafe, not habitable, and not free from material defects
because the electrical wiring in the house was not installed properly in accordance with all
applicable building, fire and electric codes, and, as a result, a fire occurred.
20. Defendant HAUBERT' S breach of its implied warranty of habitability was the
cause of the fire and property damages suffered by plaintiffs.
21. As direct and proximate result of defendant HAUBERT' S breach of its
implied warranty of habitability, plaintiffs TIMOTHY AND LESLIE THUMMA suffered severe
and substantial damage to their real and personal property, and additional living expenses.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs, TIMOTHY AND LESLIE THUMMA and UNITRIN
AUTO & HOME INSURANCE COMPANY, demand judgment against Defendant, HAUBERT
HOMES, INC., in an amount in excess of $363,965.00, together with delay damages, interest,
and the cost of this action.
COUNT III -BREACH OF IMPLIED WARRANTY
OF WORKMANLIKE PERFORMANCE
PLAINTIFFS v. HAUBERT HOMES. INC.
22. Plaintiffs incorporate by reference each and every allegation set forth above as
though fully set forth at length herein.
23. At the builder and seller of the subject house, defendant HAUBERT impliedly
warranted that its construction work was performed in a good, proper, safe and workmanlike
manner.
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24. The aforementioned fire and the resulting damages were directly and
proximately caused by defendant HAUBERT'S breach of its implied warranty of workmanlike
performance for the reasons set forth more fully in Paragraph 16 of this Complaint.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs, TIMOTHY AND LESLIE THUMMA and UNITRIN
AUTO & HOME INSURANCE COMPANY, demand judgment against Defendant, HAUBERT
HOMES, INC., in an amount in excess of $363,965.00, together with delay damages, interest,
and the cost of this action.
COUNT IV - NEGLIGENCE
PLAINTIFFS V. STEVEN PROUGH individually and d/b/a PROUGH ELECTRIC
25. Plaintiffs incorporate by reference each and every allegation set forth above as
though fully set forth herein at length.
26. As the electrical subcontractor that installed the electrical wiring in the
Thummas' house, PROUGH ELECTRIC owed plaintiffs a duty to install the electrical wiring in
a good, safe and workmanlike manner, and free from hazardous defects that could cause fires.
27. The fire and the resulting damages sustained by TIMOTHY AND LESLIE
THUMMA were directly and proximately caused by the negligence, carelessness, and negligent
acts and/or omissions of PROUGH ELECTRIC, its agents, servants and/or employees acting
within the course and scope of their employment, both generally and in the following particulars:
(a) failing to properly design and install the electrical system, including all
wiring in the house;
(b) failing to properly inspect the electrical wiring at the subject house to
insure that it was installed properly in accordance with all applicable codes, and safely;
-6-
(c) failing to perform its work and services in a good and workmanlike
manner and in accordance with all applicable building and electrical codes and standards, and
industry custom and practice;
(d) improperly installing the electrical system and wiring in a manner that
created a risk of fire;
(e) failing to properly install the circuits and conductors running through
the studs of the exterior wall of the residence;
(f) failing to properly train, oversee and supervise its employees, agents,
and subcontractors;
(g) installing improper, defective, old and/or damaged circuits and wiring
in the house; and
(h) failing to take all precautions necessary to prevent the electrical wiring
in the house from causing a fire.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs, TIMOTHY AND LESLIE THUMMA and UNITRIN
AUTO & HOME INSURANCE COMPANY, demand judgment against Defendant, STEVEN
PROUGH, individually and d/b/a PROUGH ELECTRIC, jointly and severally, in an amount in
excess of $363,965.00, together with delay damages, interest, and the cost of this action.
COUNT V -BREACH OF IMPLIED WARRANTY
OF WORKMANLIKE PERFORMANCE
PLAINTIFFS v. STEVEN PROUGH individually and d/b/a PROUGH ELECTRIC
28. Plaintiffs incorporate by reference each and every allegation set forth above as
though fully set forth at length herein.
-7-
29. By installing the electrical system, including all electrical wiring, at the
subject house, PROUGH ELECTRIC impliedly warranted that its work was performed in a
good, proper, safe and workmanlike manner.
30. Defendant PROUGH ELECTRIC breached its implied warranty by failing to
install the electrical system, including the electrical wiring in the house, in a good, safe, and
workmanlike manner and by violating applicable building, electric and fire safety codes and
standards.
31. The aforementioned fire and the resulting damages sustained by TIMOTHY
AND LESLIE THUMMA were directly and proximately caused by PROUGH ELECTRIC'S
breach of its implied warranty of workmanlike performance.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs, TIMOTHY AND LESLIE THUMMA and UNITRIN
AUTO & HOME INSURANCE COMPANY, demand judgment against Defendant, STEVEN
PROUGH, individually and d/b/a PROUGH ELECTRIC in an amount in excess of $363,965.00,
together with delay damages, interest, and the cost of this action.
COZEN O'CONNOR
BY:
SEAN P. O'DO ELL, ESQUIRE
1900 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 665-2089
ATTORNEYS FOR PLAINTIFFS
DATED: July 19, 2005
-8-
VERIFICATION
I, Sean P. O'Donnell, Esquire, hereby state that I am authorized to make this Verification
on behalf of Plaintiffs and I verify that the statements made in the foregoing Complaint are true
and correct to the best of my knowledge, information and belief based on my investigation. The
undersigned understands that the statements made herein are subject to the penalties of 18 Pa.
C.S. §4904 relating to unsworn falsification to authorities.
DATED: July 19, 2005 BY:
SAN P. O'DONNELL
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Thomas E. Brenner, Esquire
Goldberg Katzman, P.C.
PO Box 1268
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1268
717-234-4161
Attorneys for Defendant Haubert Homes
TIMOTI-TYand LESLIE TI IUMMA,
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND CO., PENNSYLVANIA
and
UNITRIN AUTO & HOME
INSURANCE a/s/o Timothy and
Leslie Thumma,
Plaintiffs
V.
NO. 05-3703
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
:JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
HAUBERT HOMES, INC. and
STEVEN PROUGH, Individuall
and d/b/a PROUGH ELECTRIC,
Defendants
ENTRY OF APPEARANCE
Please enter the appearance of Thomas E. Brenner, Esquire of Goldberg
Katzman, P.C. on behalf of Defendant Haubert Homes, Inc.
GOLDBERG KATZMAN, P.C.
By._
Thomas E. Brenner, Esquire
Attorney ID #32085
PO Box 1268
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1268
717-234-4161
Attorney for Defendant Haubert
Homes, Inc.
Date: August 10, 2005
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I HEREBY CERTIFY that this date I served a true and correct copy of the
foregoing document upon all parties or counsel of record by electronic filing or first class
mail as follows:
Sean O'Donnell, Esquire
Cozen O'Connor
1900 Market Street, Third Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Steven Prough
d/b/a Prough Electric
RR #2, Box 99
Mt. Union, PA 17033
GOLDBERG KATZMAN, P.C.
By.
Thomas E. Brenner, Esquire
Date: August 10, 2005
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Thomas E. Brenner, Esquire
Goldberg Katzman, P.C.
PO Box 1268
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1268
717-234-4161
Attorneys for Defendant Haubert Homes
TIMOTHYand LESLIE THUMMA,: IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND CO., PENNSYLVANIA
and
NO. 05-3703
UNITRIN AUTO & HOME
INSURANCE a/s/o Timothy and :
Leslie Thumma, : CIVIL ACTION - LAW
Plaintiffs
V,
:JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
IIAUBERT HOMES, INC. and
STEVEN PROUGH, Individually
and d/b/a PROUGH ELECTRIC,
Defendants
NOTICE TO PLEAD
TO: Timothy and Leslie Thumma
c/o Sean O'Donnell, Esquire
Cozen O'Connor
1900 Market Street, Third Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19103
and Steven Prough
Prough Electric
RR #2, Box 99
Mt. Union, PA 17066
YOU ARE REQUIRED to plead to the within New Matter and Ctossclaim within
20 days of service hereof or a default judgment may be entered against you.
Thomas E. Brenner, Esquire
Goldberg Katzman, P.C.
PO Box 1268
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1268
717-234-4161
Attorneys for Defendant Haubert Homes
TIMOTI Yand LESLIE THUMMA,
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND CO., PENNSYLVANTA
and
UNITRIN AUTO & HOME
INSURANCE a/s/o Timothy and
Leslie Thumma,
Plaintiffs
V.
I-IAUBERT HOMES, INC. and
STEVEN PROUGH, Individually
and d/b/a PROUGH ELECTRIC,
Defendants
NO. 05-3703
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
:JURY TRIAL DI,,MANDED
ANSWER WITH NEW MATTER AND CROSSCLAIM OF DEFENDANT
HAUBERT HOMES, INC.
AND NOW, comes Defendant, Haubert Homes, Inc., by its attorneys, Goldberg
Katzman, P.C., who state:
1. Admitted.
2. Admitted.
3. Admitted.
4. Admitted.
5. Admitted.
6. Admitted.
7. Admitted.
8. Denied. The Thummas purchased the home from Homestead Group, Inc.
9. Admitted.
10. Denied. This paragraph is denied pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1029(e).
11. Denied. This paragraph is denied pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1029(c).
12. Denied. This paragraph is denied pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1029(e).
13. Denied. This paragraph is denied pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1029(e).
COUNT I - NEGLIGENCE
PLAINTIFFS v. HAUBERT HOMES, INC.
14. The answers to paragraphs 1 through 13 are incorporated herein by
reference.
15. Denied. The paragraph states a legal conclusion to which no response is
necessary.
16. Denied. It is denied that Defendant Haubert was negligent or careless in
the construction of the home. The remainder of the paragraph sets forth a series of legal
conclusions to which no response is necessary. In further response, the paragraph is
denied pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1029(e).
WHEREFORE, Defendant Haubert Homes, Inc, requests that Count I of the
Plaintiffs' Complaint be dismissed, with prejudice.
COUNT II - BREACH OF IMPLIED WARRANTY OF HABITABILITY
PLAINTIFFS v. HAUBERT HOMES. INC.
17. The answers to paragraphs 1 through 16 are incorporated herein by
reference.
1& Denied. The paragraph states a legal conclusion to which no response is
necessary. Defendant Haubert did not sell the home to the Thummas
19. Denied. The paragraph states a legal conclusion to which no response is
necessary. Defendant Haubert did not sell the home to the Thummas.
20. Denied. The paragraph states a legal conclusion to which no response is
necessary.
21. Denied. The paragraph states a legal conclusion to which no response is
necessary. In further response, the remainder of the paragraph is denied pursuant to
Pa.R.C.P. 1029(e).
VMERFFORE, Defendant Haubert Homes, Inc. requests that Count IT of the
Plaintiffs' Complaint be dismissed, with prejudice.
COUNT III - BREACH OF IMPLIED WARRANTY
OF WORKMANSHIPLIKE PERFORMANCE
PLAINTIFFS v. HAUBERT HOMES, INC.
22. The answers to paragraphs 1 through 21 are incorporated herein by
reference.
23. Denied. The paragraph states a legal conclusion to which no response is
necessary. Moreover, Haubert was not the seller of the home to the Plaintiffs.
24. Denied. The paragraph states a legal conclusion to which no response is
necessary. In further response, the answer of Haubert Homes' paragraph 16 are
incorporated herein by reference.
WHEREFORE, Defendant Haubert Homes, Inc. requests that Count III of the
Plaintiffs' Complaint be dismissed, with prejudice.
COUNT IV - NEGLIGENCE
PLAINTIFFS v. STEVEN PROUGH, individually and d/b/a PROUGH
ELECTRIC
25-27. These paragraphs are directed to a party and no response is required by the
Answering Defendant.
COUNT V - BREACH OF IMPLIED WARRANTY
OF WORKMANLIKE PERFORMANCE
PLAINTIFFS v. STEVEN PROUGH, individually and d/b/a PROUGH
ELECTRIC
28-31. These paragraphs are directed to a party and no response is required by
the Answering Defendant.
NEW MATTER DIRECTED TO PLAINTIFFS
32. The fire in the Plaintiffs' home arose from actions or events unrelated to the
home construction.
33. The fire in the Plaintiffs' home was caused by contributory negligence on
the part of the Plaintiffs.
34. The fire in the Plaintiffs' home was caused by comparative negligence on
the part of the Plaintiffs.
35, The fire in the Plaintiffs' home arose from actions of parties not named to
this litigation.
36. Plaintiffs' claims of joint and several liability are subject to the legal
standards set forth in the Fair Share Act.
37. Steven Prough d/b/a Prough Electric, served as an independent
subcontractor on the construction of the home purchased by Plaintiffs.
WHEREFORE, Defendant Haubert Homes, Inc. requests that Plaintiffs'
Complaint be dismissed, with prejudice.
CROSSCLAIM PURSUANT TO PA.R.C.P. 2252(d)
Haubert Homes, Inc. v. Steven Prough, d/b/a Prough Electric
38. The averments of paragraphs 26 through 31 are in corporated herein by
reference.
39. Defendant Steven Prough d/b/a Prough Electric served as the electrical
contractor on this home construction.
40. If the Plaintiffs establish the loss arose from the electrical wiring in the
home, then Defendant Steven Prough d/b/a Prough Electric should be found solely
liable; or in the alternative, liable over to Defendant Haubert for indemnity and/or
contribution.
WHEREFORE, Defendant Haubert Homes, Inc. demands judgment against
Defendant Steven Prough d/b/a Prough Electric, finding them solely liable on the
Plaintiffs' claim or, in the alternative, liable over to Defendant Haubert for indemnity
and/or contribution.
GOLDB17RG KATZMAN, P.C.
By:
Thomas E. Brenner, Esquire
Attorney ID #32085
PO Box 1268
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1268
717-234-4161
Attorney for Defendant Flaubert
Homes, Inc.
Date: August 22, 2005
VERIFICATION
We, Don Haubert and Brad I Iaubert, hereby acknowledge that we are authorized
representatives of Haubert Homes, Inc., a Defendant in this action; that we have read the
foregoing document and that the facts stated therein are true and correct to the best of
our knowledge, information and belief.
We understand that any false statements herein are made subject to penalties of
18 Pa. C.S. Section 4904, relating to unworn falsification to authorities.
HAUBERT HOMES, INC.
By: 9ov-?z
on Haubert
HAUBERT HOMES. INC.
By:
Date: 1F?,// 9 /d S-
125160.1
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I HEREBY CERTIFY that this date I served a true and correct copy of the
foregoing document upon all parties or counsel of record by electronic filing or first class
mail as follows:
Sean O'Donnell, Esquire
Cozen O'Connor
1900 Market Street, Third Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Steven Prough
d/b/a Prough Electric
RR #2, Box 99
Mt. Union, PA 17066
GOLDBERG KATZMAN, P.C.
Thomas E. Brenner, Esquire
Date: August 22, 2005
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COZEN O'CONNOR
BY: SEAN P. O'DONNELL
Atty. Regis. 976533
1900 Market Street
The Atrium - Third Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 665-2733
Attorneys for Plaintiff
TIMOTHY AND LESLIE THUMMA
1512 Inverness Drive
Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania 17050
and
UNITRIN AUTO & HOME INSURANCE
COMPANY a/s/o Timothy and Leslie Thumma
5220 Belfort Road
Jacksonville, FL 32256-6017
Plaintiffs
V.
HAUBERT HOMES, INC.
15 Central Boulevard
Camp Hill, Pennsylvania 17011
and
STEVEN PROUGH individually and d/b/a
PROUGH ELECTRIC
RR2Box99
Mount Union, Pennsylvania 17066
Defendants
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
FOR CUMBERLAND COUNTY,
PENNSYLVANIA
CIVIL ACTION NO. 05-3703
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
PRAECIPE TO REINSTATE COMPLAINT
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Kindly reinstate the attached Complaint with respect to the above-captioned matter.
COZEN O'CONNOR
BY: io??_ Ad"
SEAN P. O'DONNELL, ESQUIRE
DATED: AUGUST 23, 2005
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COZEN O'CONNOR
BY: SEAN P. O'DONNELL
Atty. Regis. 476533
1900 Market Street
The Atrium - Third Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 665-2733
Attorneys for Plaintiff
TIMOTHY AND LESLIE THUMMA
and
UNITRIN AUTO & HOME INSURANCE
COMPANY a/s/o Timothy and Leslie Thumma
Plaintiffs
V.
HAUBERT HOMES, INC.
STEVEN PROUGH individually and d/b/a
PROUGH ELECTRIC
Defendants
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PA
CIVIL ACTION NO. 05-3703
PLAINTIFFS' REPLY TO NEW MATTER OF
DEFENDANT HAUBERT HOMES. INC.
32. Denied. Plaintiffs deny that the fire at the Thummas' home arose from actions or events
unrelated to the home construction by defendant Haubert Homes, Inc. and demand strict
proof thereof at trial.
33. Denied. Plaintiffs deny that the fire was caused by plaintiffs' contributory negligence
and demand strict proof thereof at trial.
34. Denied. Plaintiffs deny that the fire was caused by plaintiffs' comparative negligence
and demand strict proof thereof at trial.
35. Denied. Plaintiffs deny that the fire arose from actions of parties not named to this
litigation and demand strict proof thereof at trial.
36. Denied. Plaintiffs deny that their claims of joint and several liability are subject to the
legal standards set forth in the Fair Share Act. Moreover, this statement is a conclusion
of law to which no response is required pursuant to the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil
Procedure.
37. This statement constitutes a conclusion of law to which no response is required pursuant
to the Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure. To the extent a response is required,
plaintiffs submit that defendants are obligated to prove this assertion at trial.
WHEREFORE, Plaintiffs, Timothy and Leslie Thumma and Unitrin Auto & Home
Insurance, a/s/o Timothy and Leslie Thumma respectively request that defendant's New Matter
be dismissed and that judgment be entered in their favor and against defendant Haubert Homes,
Inc.
COZEN O'CONNOR
BY:_
SEAN P. O'DONNELL, ESQUIRE
1900 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 665-2089
ATTORNEYS FOR PLAINTIFFS
DATED: September 8, 2005
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that on the 8th day of September, 2005, I served a true and correct copy of
Plaintiffs' Answer to New Matter of Defendant Haubert Homes, Inc. by First Class United States
Mail, postage prepaid, to the following:
Thomas E. Brenner, Esquire
Goldberg Katzman, P.C.
P.O. Box 1268
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1268
Donald R. Dorer, Esquire
Jacobs & Associates
214 Senate Avenue
Suite 503
Camp Hill, PA 17011
Steven Prough
d/b/a Prough Electric
RR #2, Box 99
Mt. Union, PA 17066
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SEAN P. O'DONNELL
05HB-00120
LAW OFFICES OF JACOBS & ASSOCIATES
214 Senate Avenue, Suite 503
Camp Hill, PA 17011
Telephone Number: (717) 731-0988
Attorneys for Defendant, Steven Prough, Individually
and d/b/a Prough Electric
TIMOTHY AND LESLIE THUMMA
AND
KEMPER AUTO & HOME INSURANCE
COMPANY A/S/O TIMOTHY AND
LESLIE THUMMA,
PLAINTIFFS
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
VS.
HAUBERT HOMES, INC.
AND
STEVEN PROUGH, INDIVIDUALLY AND
D/B/A PROUGH ELECTRIC,
DEFENDANTS
No. 2005 - 3703
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
ENTRY OF APPEARANCE
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Kindly enter my appearance in the above-captioned matter on behalf of the Defendant,
Steven Prough, Individually and d/b/a Prough Electric. Defendant, Steven Prough, Individually
and d/b/a Prough Electric reserves the right to otherwise plead in this matter.
Date: September 16, 2005
ed,
JA O S
DonAld R. Dorer, Esquire
Attorney for Defendant, Steven Prough,
Individually and d/b/a Prough Electric
Identification No. 39126
.TES
05HB-00120
LAW OFFICES OF JACOBS & ASSOCIATES
214 Senate Avenue, Suite 503
Camp Hill, PA 17011
Telephone Number: (717) 731-0988
Attorneys for Defendant, Steven Prough, Individually
and d/b/a Prough Electric
TIMOTHY AND LESLIE THUMMA
AND
KEMPER AUTO & HOME INSURANCE
COMPANY A/S/O TIMOTHY AND
LESLIE THUMMA,
PLAINTIFFS
VS.
HAUBERT HOMES, INC.
AND
STEVEN PROUGH, INDIVIDUALLY AND
D/B/A PROUGH ELECTRIC,
DEFENDANTS
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
No. 2005 - 3703
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
Donald R. Dorer, Esquire, hereby certifies that he is the attorney for the Defendant, Steven
Prough, Individually and d/b/a Prough Electric herein, and that he caused a true and correct copy
of the attached Entry of Appearance to be served by regular first class mail upon:
Sean P. O'Donnell, Esquire
Cozen O'Connor
1900 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Attorney for Plaintiffs
Thomas E. Brenner, Esquire
Goldberg, Katzman, P.C.
P.O. Box 1268
171
Homes, Inc.
Date: September 16, 2005
R. Dorer, Esquire
Attorney for Defendant, Steven Prough,
Individually and d/b/a Prough Electric
4 ?Vl.
r= +? -o cy"r?3
c11
SHERIFF'S RETURN - OUT OF COUNTY
CASE NO: 2005-03703 P
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA:
COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND
THUMMA TIMOTHY ET AL
VS
HAUBERT HOMES INC ET AL
R. Thomas Kline , Sheriff or Deputy Sheriff who being
duly sworn according to law, says, that he made a diligent search and
and inquiry for the within named DEFENDANT , to wit:
PROUGH STEVEN
but was unable to locate Him in his bailiwick. He therefore
deputized the sheriff of HUNTINGDON County, Pennsylvania, to
serve the within COMPLAINT Sc NOTICE
On August 25th , 2005 , this office was in receipt of the
attached return from HUNTINGDON
Sheriff's Costs:
Docketing 6.00
Out of County 9.00
Surcharge 10.00
Postage .37
.00
25.37
08/25/2005
COZEN & OCONNOR
So answers:
R. Thomas Kline
Sheriff of Cumberland County
Sworn and subscribed to before me
this (- day of 4yA6-r-
A.D.
1Prot ota
SHERIFF'S RETURN - OUT OF COUNTY
CASE NO: 2005-03703 P
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA:
COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND
TIMOTHY ET AL
VS
HAUBERT HOMES INC ET AL
R. Thomas Kline , Sheriff or Deputy Sheriff who being
duly sworn according to law, says, that he made a diligent search and
and inquiry for the within named DEFENDANT to wit:
PROUGH STEVEN D/B/A PROUGH ELECTRIC
but was unable to locate Him in his bailiwick. He therefore
deputized the sheriff of HUNTINGDON
serve the within COMPLAINT & NOTICE
County, Pennsylvania, to
On August 25th , 2005 , this office was in receipt of the
attached return from HUNTINGDON
Sheriff's Costs:
Docketing 6.00
Out of County .00
Surcharge 10.00
.00
.00
16.00
08/25/2005
COZEN & OCONNOR
So answers:
R. Thomas Kline
Sheriff of Cumberland County
Sworn and subscribed to before me
this day of ?y 1JQX
A.D.
Pro of ry
In The Court of Common Pleas'of Cumberland County, Pennsylvania
Timothy Thumma, et. al.
vs.
Haubert Homes, Inc., et. al.
Serve: Steven Prough No. 2005-3701 Civil
Now, 8/2/05 I, SHERIFF OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PA, do
hereby deputize the Sheriff of Huntington County to execute this Writ, this
deputation being made at the request and risk of the Plaintiff.
Sheriff of Cumberland County, PA
Affidavit of Service
Now,
within
upon
at
by handing to
a
and made known to
copy of the original
So answers,
the contents thereof.
Sheriff of
Sworn and subscribed before
me this day of 20
20, at o'clock M. served the
COSTS
SERVICE
MILEAGE
AFFIDAVIT
County, PA
In The Court of Common Pleas'of Cumberland County, Pennsylvania
Timothy Thumma, et. al.
VS.
Haubert Homes, Inc., et. al.
Serve: Steven Prough, d/b/a Prough Electric NO 2005-3703 Civil
Now, 9/2/05 , I, SHERIFF OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PA, do
hereby deputize the Sheriff of Huntington County to execute this Writ, this
deputation being made at the request and risk of the Plaintiff.
Sheriff of Cumberland County, PA
Affidavit of Service
Now,
within
upon
at
by handing to _
a
and made known to
So answers,
Sheriff of
Sworn and subscribed before
me this day of 20.
copy of the original
COSTS
SERVICE
MILEAGE _
AFFIDAVIT
20 , at o'clock M. served the
the contents thereof.
County, PA
SHERIFF'S OFFICE
HUNTINGDON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
241 Mifflin Street
Huntingdon, PA 16652
Telephone: 814-643-0880
William G. Walters, Sheriff
Timothy Thumma et al
No. 3703
Vs.
Steven Prough individually and D/B/A Prough Electric
Term:2005
Now, this 22nd day of August , 2005 , I am unable to locate the within named
defendant, Steven Prough individually and D/B/A Prough Electric , within my bailiwick, return this
Notice and Complaint "NOT FOUND." Reason unable to serve:
Unable to locate defendant at address Piven.
Sworn and subscribed to
,
before me this-)3)#
day of u
4L?A Al t-
20 J,?- NW.
So Answers,
Gc?
William G. Walters, Sheriff
Sergeant Jeffrey E. Leonard
Chief Deputy/Deputy
Costs:
Notarial 3eal
Tammy S. Coons, Notary Public
Huntingdon Boro, Huntingdon County
My Commission Expires Oct. 21, 2006
Rec. & Doc. $9.00
Return Not Found --UF6
Mileage/Postage $10.30
Surcharge ---
Affidavit $5.00
Miscellaneous ---
Total Costs $34.30 Paid
SHERIFF'S RETURN - REGULAR
CASE NO: 2005-03703 P
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA:
COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND
THUMMA TIMOTHY ET AL
VS
HAUBERT HOMES INC ET
GERLAD WORTHINGTON , Sheriff or Deputy Sheriff of
Cumberland County,Pennsylvania, who being duly sworn according to law,
says, the within COMPLAINT & NOTICE was served upon
HAUBERT HOMES INC the
DEFENDANT
, at 1457:00 HOURS, on the 3rd day of August , 2005
at 15 CENTRAL BOULEVARD
CAMP HILL, PA 17011
by handing to
DON HAUBERT SR, PRESIDENT, ADULT IN CHARGE
a true and attested copy of COMPLAINT & NOTICE
together with
and at the same time directing His attention to the contents thereof.
Sheriff's Costs:
Docketing 18.00
Service 10.40
.00
Surcharge 10.00
.00
38.40
Sworn and Subscribed to before
me this IG day of
A.D.
ro tar
I
So Answers:
R. Thomas Kline
08/25/2005
COZEN & OCONNOR
By
Deputy Sher
SHERIFF'S RETURN - OUT OF COUNTY
CASE NO: 2005-03703 P
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA:
COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND
THUMMA TIMOTHY ET AL
VS
HAUBERT HOMES INC ET AL
R. Thomas Kline
, Sheriff or Deputy Sheriff who being
duly sworn according to law, says, that he made a diligent search and
and inquiry for the within named DEFENDANT , to wit:
PROUGH STEVEN
but was unable to locate Him in his bailiwick. He therefore
deputized the sheriff of HUNTINGDON County, Pennsylvania, to
serve the within COMPLAINT & NOTICE
On September 13th , 2005 , this office was in receipt of the
attached return from HUNTINGDON
Sheriff's Costs:
Docketing 18.00
Out of County 9.00
Surcharge 10.00 /
.00 IL
.00
37.00
09/13/2005
COZEN OCONNOR
So
omas K11ne
ff of Cumberland County
Sworn and subscribed to before me
this day of
? 0 .D.
Prot nota
J?k
SHERIFF'S RETURN - OUT OF COUNTY
CASE NO: 2005-03703 P
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA:
COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND
THUMMA TIMOTHY ET AL
VS
HAUBERT HOMES INC ET AL
R. Thomas Kline
, Sheriff or Deputy Sheriff who being
duly sworn according to law, says, that he made a diligent search and
and inquiry for the within named DEFENDANT , to wit:
PROUGH STEVEN D/B/A PROUGH
but was unable to locate Him
deputized the sheriff of HUNTINGDON
serve the within COMPLAINT & NOTICE
ELECTRI
in his bailiwick. He therefore
County, Pennsylvania, to
On September 13th , 2005 , this office was in receipt of the
attached return from HUNTINGDON
Sheriff's Costs:
Docketing 6.00
Out of County .00
Surcharge 10.00
.00
.00
16.00
09/13/2005
COZEN OCONNOR
So
ma Kline
i iff of Cumberland County
Sworn and subscribed to before me
this
In day of
1 -0
07,U?S A.D.
/17
P , ono ary
In The Court of Common Pleas of Cumberland County, Pennsylvania
Timothy & Leslie Thumma et al
VS.
Haubert Homes Inc et al
SERVE: Steven Prough No 05-3703 civil
Now August 30, 2005 , I, SHERIFF OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PA, do
hereby deputize the Sheriff of Huntingdon County to execute this Writ, this
deputation being made at the request and risk of the Plaintiff.
Sheriff of Cumberland County, PA
Affidavit of Service
Now,
within
upon
at
by handing to
a
and made known to
So answers,
Sheriff of
Sworn and subscribed before
me this day of 20
copy of the original
COSTS
SERVICE _
MILEAGE
AFFIDAVIT
20 , at o'clock M. served the
the contents thereof.
County, PA
$
In The Court of Common Pleas of Cumberland County, Pennsylvania
Timothy & Leslie Thumma et al
vs.
Haubert Homes Inc et al
SERVE: Steven Prough d/b/a Prough Electric
No. 05-3703 civil
Now, August 30, 2005 ,1, SHERIFF OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PA, do
hereby deputize the Sheriff of Huntingdon County to execute this Writ, this
deputation being made at the request and risk of the Plaintiff.
Sheriff of Cumberland County, PA
Affidavit of Service
Now,
within
upon
at
by handing to
a
and made known to
copy of the original
So answers,
the contents thereof.
Sheriff of
Sworn and subscribed before
me this _ day of 20
20_, at o'clock M. served the
COSTS
SERVICE $
MILEAGE
AFFIDAVIT
County, PA
SHERIFF'S OFFICE
HUNTINGDON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
241 Mifflin Street
Huntingdon, PA 16652
Telephone: 814-643-0880
William G. Walters, Sheriff
Timothy Thumma et at
No. 3703
Vs.
Stephen Prough individually and d/b/a Prough Electric
Term:2005
Now, the 8th day of September 2005 at 1546 A.M./P.M. I served the within
Notice and Complaint upon
Stephen Prough individually and d/b/a Prough Electric at
Rr 2 Box 99, Mount Union, PA 17066
by handing to Susan Prough, wife of Stephen Prough
one true and correct copy/copies of the within Notice and Complaint
and made known to Stephen
the contents thereof.
Sworn and subscribed to
before me this(A\,&,_
day o
29 A. .
So Answers,
William G. Walters eriff
De u hristo er K. Sldpper
lVez
Chief Deputy/Deputy
Not Pu
b Costs:
._ Rec. & Doc.
risl Seal
S. Coons, Notary Public
Service
Porn, Huntingdon County
:sion Expires Oct. 2l, 2006 Mileage/Postage
tsylvaniaASSOOiation of Notaries Surcharge
Affidavit
Miscellaneous
Total Costs
$9.00
?6
$10.30
$5.00
$39.30 Paid
05HB-00120
LAW OFFICES OF JACOBS & ASSOCIATES
214 Senate Avenue, Suite 503
Camp Hill, PA 17011
Telephone Number: (717) 731-0988
Attorneys for Defendant, Steven Prough, Individually
and d/b/a Prough Electric
TIMOTHY AND LESLIE THUMMA
AND
KEMPER AUTO & HOME INSURANCE
COMPANY A/S/O TIMOTHY AND
LESLIE THUMMA,
PLAINTIFFS
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
VS.
HAUBERT HOMES, INC.
AND
STEVEN PROUGH, INDIVIDUALLY AND
D/B/A PROUGH ELECTRIC,
DEFENDANTS
No. 2005 - 3703
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
ANSWER OF DEFENDANT, STEVEN PROUGH,
INDIVIDUALLY AND D/B/A PROUGH ELECTRIC, TO CROSSCLAIM PURSUANT TO PA.
R.C.P. 2252(d) OF DEFENDANT, HAUBERT HOMES, INC.
38. Paragraphs 1 through 37 are incorporated herein by reference, and made a part hereof
as if set forth in full.
39.40. Paragraphs 39 and 40 set forth conclusions of law to which no response is
required. Should any of the allegations contained therein be deemed factual in nature, said
allegations are denied pursuant to Pa. R.C.P. 1029(e).
WHEREFORE, Defendant, Steven Prough, Individually and d/b/a Prough Electric,
respectfully requests your Honorable Court to dismiss Crossclaim Pursuant to Pa. R.C.P. 2252(d)
of Defendant, Haubert Homes, Inc., with prejudice.
Respectfully submitted,
& ASSOCIATES
Date: November 7, 2005
DWald R. Dbrer, Es4dire
Attorney for Defendant, Steven Prough,
Individually and d/b/a Prough Electric
Identification No. 39126
05HB-00120
LAW OFFICES OF JACOBS & ASSOCIATES
214 Senate Avenue, Suite 503
Camp Hill, PA 17011
Telephone Number: (717) 731-0988
Attorneys for Defendant, Steven Prough, Individually
and d/b/a Prough Electric
TIMOTHY AND LESLIE THUMMA
AND
KEMPER AUTO & HOME INSURANCE
COMPANY A/S/O TIMOTHY AND
LESLIE THUMMA,
PLAINTIFFS
VS.
HAUBERT HOMES, INC.
AND
STEVEN PROUGH, INDIVIDUALLY AND
D/B/A PROUGH ELECTRIC,
DEFENDANTS
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
No. 2005 - 3703
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
VERIFICATION
DONALD R. DORER, ESQUIRE, hereby states that he is the attorney for Defendant,
Steven Prough, Individually and d/b/a Prough Electric, in this action, and is authorized to verify
that the statements made in the foregoing pleading are true and correct to the best of his
knowledge, information and belief. The undersigned understands that the statements therein are
made subject to the penalties of 18 Pa.C.S.A. §4q04,relating to,,#nswo4 falsification to authorities.
Date: November 7. 2005
175( ald R. Dorer, E quir
Attorney for Defendant, Steven Prough,
Individually and d/b/a Prough Electric
Court LD.39216
05HB-00120
LAW OFFICES OF JACOBS & ASSOCIATES
214 Senate Avenue, Suite 503
Camp Hill, PA 17011
Telephone Number: (717) 731-0988
Attorneys for Defendant, Steven Prough,Individually
and d/b/a Prough Electric
TIMOTHY AND LESLIE THUMMA
AND
KEMPER AUTO & HOME INSURANCE
COMPANY A/S/O TIMOTHY AND
LESLIE THUMMA,
PLAINTIFFS
VS.
HAUBERT HOMES, INC.
AND
STEVEN PROUGH, INDIVIDUALLY AND
D/B/A PROUGH ELECTRIC,
DEFENDANTS
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
No. 2005 - 3703
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
Donald R. Dorer, Esquire, hereby certifies that he is the attorney for the Defendant, Steven
Prough, Individually and d/b/a Prough Electric herein, and that he caused a true and correct copy
of the attached Answer of Defendant Steven Prough Individually and d/b/a Proueh Electric to
Crossclaim Pursuant to Pa R C.P. 2252(d) of Defendant Haubert Homes Inc to be served by
regular first class mail upon:
Sean P. O'Donnell, Esquire
Cozen O'Connor
1900 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Attorney for Plaintiffs
Thomas E. Brenner, Esquire
Goldberg, Katzman, P.C.
P.O. Box 1268
HaAj4hurg, PA 17108-
Homes, Inc.
Date: November 7, 2005
Donald R. 1'>6rer, Esquire
Attorney for Defendant, Steven Prough,
Individually and d/b/a Prough Electric
?? }?J _
l.,
1. G 1 _C7
r
(I'I T
? ?4:
iC i
-!)
' W ._...
-j
.? ?<
µ
05HB-00120
LAW OFFICES OF JACOBS & ASSOCIATES
214 Senate Avenue, Suite 503
Camp Hill, PA 17011
Telephone Number: (717) 731-0988
Attorneys for Defendant, Steven Prough, Individually
and d/b/a Prough Electric
TIMOTHY AND LESLIE THUMMA
AND
KEMPER AUTO & HOME INSURANCE
COMPANY A/S/O TIMOTHY AND
LESLIE THUMMA,
PLAINTIFFS
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
VS.
HAUBERT HOMES, INC.
AND
STEVEN PROUGH, INDIVIDUALLY AND
D/B/A PROUGH ELECTRIC,
DEFENDANTS
No. 2005 - 3703
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
ANSWER AND CROSSCLAIM PURSUANT TO PA. R.C.P. 2252(d)
OF DEFENDANT, STEVEN PROUGH, INDIVIDUALLY AND D/BMA PROUGH ELECTRIC,
TO PLAINTIFFS' COMPLAINT
1. Admitted.
2. Admitted.
3. Admitted.
4. Admitted.
5. Admitted.
6. Admitted.
7. Admitted.
8. Admitted. By way of further statement, upon information and belief, the Plaintiffs
purchased the home from Homestead Group, Inc.
9. Admitted.
10. Denied. This paragraph is denied pursuant to Pa. R.C.P. §1029(e).
11. Denied. This paragraph is denied pursuant to Pa. R.C.P. § 1029(e).
12. Denied. This paragraph is denied pursuant to Pa. R.C.P. §1029(e).
13. Denied. This paragraph is denied pursuant to Pa. R.C.P. § I029(e).
14.-24. Paragraphs 14 through 24 pertain to Defendant, Haubert Homes, Inc., as to which
no response is required from answering Defendant, Steven Prough, Individually and d/b/a Prough
Electric.
25. Paragraphs 1 through 24 are incorporated herein by reference, and made a part hereof
as if set forth in full.
26. Denied. This paragraph states a legal conclusion as to which no response is required.
Should any allegations therein be deemed factual in nature, such allegations are denied pursuant
to Pa. R.C.P. § I029(e).
27. Denied. It is specifically denied that Defendant, Steven Prough, d/b/a Prough
Electric, was negligent or careless as set forth in this paragraph 27 of Plaintiffs' Complaint. To
the extent that any allegations are deemed factual in nature. By way of further statement, this
paragraph sets forth a series of legal conclusions as to which no response is required. By way of
further statement, this paragraph is denied pursuant to Pa. R.C.P. §1029(e).
2
WHEREFORE, Defendant, Steven Prough, Individually and d/b/a Prough Electric,
respectfully requests your Honorable Court to dismiss Count IV of Plaintiffs' Complaint, with
prejudice.
28. Paragraphs 1 through 27 are incorporated herein by reference, and made a part hereof
as if set forth in full.
29. Denied. Paragraph 29 states a legal conclusion as to which no response is required.
By way of further statement, any allegations deemed factual in nature are denied pursuant to Pa.
R.C.P. §1029(e).
30. Denied. Paragraph 30 states a legal conclusion as to which no response is required.
By way of further statement, any allegations deemed factual in nature are denied pursuant to Pa.
R.C.P. §1029(e).
31. Denied. Paragraph 31 states a legal conclusion as to which no response is required.
By way of further statement, any allegations deemed factual in nature are denied pursuant to Pa.
R.C.P. §1029(e).
WHEREFORE, Defendant, Steven Prough, Individually and d/b/a Prough Electric,
respectfully requests your Honorable Court to dismiss Count V of Plaintiffs' Complaint, with
prejudice.
CROSSCLAIM PURSUANT TO PA. R.C.P. 2252(d)
Steven Prough, Individually and d/b/a Prough Electric v. Haubert Homes Inc.
32. Paragraphs I through 31 are incorporated herein by reference, and made a part hereof
as if set forth in full.
33. If Plaintiffs did sustain the damages as alleged, which allegations are specifically
denied, then said damages were caused, not as a result of any negligence, carelessness or
recklessness of Defendant, Steven Prough, Individually and d/b/a Prough Electric, but rather
solely and exclusively as a result of the negligence, carelessness and recklessness of Defendant,
Haubert Homes, Inc.
34. Defendant, Haubert Homes, Inc., should therefore be held solely liable to the
Plaintiffs, and/or jointly and severally liable to the Plaintiffs, and/or liable over to Defendant,
Steven Prough, Individually and d/b/a Prough Electric, on any judgment that may be entered in
favor of Plaintiffs and against Defendant, Steven Prough, Individually and d/b/a Prough Electric.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, Steven Prough, Individually and d/b/a Prough Electric,
demands judgment against Defendant, Haubert Homes, Inc., finding them solely liable on the
Plaintiffs' claim or, in the alternative, liable over to Defendant, Steven Prough, Individually and
d/b/a Prough Electric for indemnity and/or contribution.
Respectfully submitted,
LAW OFFICES OF JAC' OB & ASSOCIATES
Date: November 7, 2005 By: -v
r5oMaid, R. D'orer, Essydire
Attorney for Defendant, Steven Prough,
Individually and d/b/a Prough Electric
Identification No. 39126
05HB-00120
LAW OFFICES OF JACOBS & ASSOCIATES
214 Senate Avenue, Suite 503
Camp Hill, PA 17011
Telephone Number: (717) 731-0988
Attorneys for Defendant, Steven Prough, Individually
and d/b/a Prough Electric
TIMOTHY AND LESLIE THUMMA
AND
KEMPER AUTO & HOME INSURANCE
COMPANY A/S/O TIMOTHY AND
LESLIE THUMMA,
PLAINTIFFS
VS.
HAUBERT HOMES, INC.
AND
STEVEN PROUGH, INDIVIDUALLY AND
D/B/A PROUGH ELECTRIC,
DEFENDANTS
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
No. 2005 - 3703
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
VERIFICATION
DONALD R. DORER, ESQUIRE, hereby states that he is the attorney for Defendant,
Steven Prough, Individually and d/b/a Prough Electric, in this action, and is authorized to verify
that the statements made in the foregoing pleading are true and correct to the best of his
knowledge, information and belief. The undersigned understands that the statements therein are
made subject to the penalties of 18 Pa.C.S.A. §4904 relating to unworn fal fcat1jon to authorities.
/
Date: November 7. 2005 1 k
Dotial R. Dorer, Esquire
Attorney for Defendant, Steven Prough,
Individually and d/b/a Prough Electric
Court I.D. 39216
05HB-00120
LAW OFFICES OF JACOBS & ASSOCIATES
214 Senate Avenue, Suite 503
Camp Hill, PA 17011
Telephone Number: (717) 731-0988
Attorneys for Defendant, Steven Prough, Individually
and d/b/a Prough Electric
TIMOTHY AND LESLIE THUMMA
AND
KEMPER AUTO & HOME INSURANCE
COMPANY A/s/O TIMOTHY AND
LESLIE THUMMA,
PLAINTIFFS
VS.
HAUBERT HOMES, INC.
AND
STEVEN PROUGH, INDIVIDUALLY AND
D/B/A PROUGH ELECTRIC,
DEFENDANTS
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
No. 2005 - 3703
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
Donald R. Dorer, Esquire, hereby certifies that he is the attorney for the Defendant, Steven
Prough, Individually and d/b/a Prough Electric herein, and that he caused a true and correct copy
of the attached Answer and Crossclaim Pursuant to Pa. R.C.P. 2252(d) of Defendant Steven
Prough, Individually and d/b/a Prough Electric, to Plaintiffs' Complaint to be served by regular
first class mail upon:
Sean P. O'Donnell, Esquire
Cozen O'Connor
1900 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Attorney for Plaintiffs
Thomas E. Brenner, Esquire
Goldberg, Katzman, P.C.
P.O. Box 1268
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1268
Attorney for Defendant, Haubert Homes, Inc.
Date: November 7, 2005
Donald R. Dorer, Esquire
Attorney for Defendant, Steven Prough,
Individually and d/b/a Prough Electric
C i c ? <1
.J
_
CJ _
ILI C)
`, i
ca
Thomas E. Brenner, Esquire
Goldberg Katzman, P.C.
PO Box 1268
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1268
717-234-4161
Attorneys for Defendant Haubert Homes
TIMOTHYand LESLIE THUMMA,
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND CO., PENNSYLVANIA
and
UNITRIN AUTO & HOME
INSURANCE a/s/o Timothy and
Leslie Thumma,
Plaintiffs
V.
NO. 05-3703
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
F AUBERT HOMES, INC. and
STEVEN PROUGH, Individuall
and d/b/a PROUGH ELECTRIC,
Defendants
REPLY OF DEFENDANT 14AUBERT HOMES, INC. TO THE
CROSS-CLAIM OF DEFENDANT STEVEN PROUGH
AND NOW, comes Defendant Haubert Homes, Inc., by its attorneys, Goldberg
Katzman, P.C., who state:
32. The answers to paragraphs 1 through 31 of the Complaint are incorporated
herein by reference.
33. Denied. The paragraph states a series of legal conclusions to which no
response is necessary.
34. Denied. The paragraph states a series of legal conclusions to which no
response is necessary.
WHEREFORE, Defendant Haubert Homes, Inc. requests that the cross-claim
of Defendant Steven Prough be dismissed, with prejudice.
GOLDBERG KATZMAN, P.C.
By: ?? ?..??'"
Thomas E. Brenner, Esquire
Attorney ID #32085
PO Box 1268
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1268
717-234-4161
Attorney for Defendant Haubert
Homes, Inc.
Date: November 9, 2005
VERIFICATION
I, Thomas E. Brenner, Esquire, hereby acknowledge that I am the attorney for
Haubert Homes, Inc.; that I have read the foregoing document; that there are no new
facts of record contained in the document; and that the facts stated therein are true and
correct to the best of my knowledge, information and belief.
I understand that any false statements herein are made subject to penalties of 18
Pa.C.S. §4904, relating to unsworn falsification to authorities.
Thomas E. Brenner, Esquire
Date: November 9, 2005
103407.1
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I HEREBY CERTIFY that this date I served a true and correct copy of the
foregoing document upon all parties or counsel of record by electronic filing or first class
mail as follows:
Sean O'Donnell, Esquire
Cozen O'Connor
1900 Market Street, Third Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Donald R. Doter, Esquire
Jacobs & Associates
214 Senate Avenue, Suite 503
Camp Hill, PA 17011
GOLDBERG KATZMAN, P.C.
Thomas E. Brenner, Esquire
Date: November 9, 2005
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05HB-00120
LAW OFFICES OF JACOBS & ASSOCIATES
214 Senate Avenue, Suite 503
Camp Hill, PA 17011
Telephone Number: (717) 731-0988
Attorneys for Defendant, Steven Prough, Individually
and d/b/a Prough Electric
TIMOTHY AND LESLIE THUMMA
AND
KEMPER AUTO & HOME INSURANCE
COMPANY A/S/O TIMOTHY AND
LESLIE THUMMA,
PLAINTIFFS
VS.
HAUBERT HOMES, INC.
AND
STEVEN PROUGH, INDIVIDUALLY AND
D/B/A PROUGH ELECTRIC,
DEFENDANTS
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
No. 2005 - 3703
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
PRAECIPE TO SUBSTITUTE VERIFICATION
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Kindly substitute the attached Verification to Answer and Crossclaim Pursuant to Pa.
R.C.P. 2252(d) of Defendant, Steven Prough, Individually and d/b/a Prough Electric to
Plaintiffs' Comulaint, for the attorney's Verification that had been filed with the Court on or
about November 8, 2005.
Respectfully submitted,
LAW OFFICES OF JACOBS & ASSOCIATES
l
Date:_ November 18, 2005 By:
Donald`R. Dorer, Esquire
Attorney for Defendant, Steven Prough,
Individually and d/b/a Prough Electric
Identification No. 39126
05HB-00120
LAW OFFICES OF JACOBS & ASSOCIATES
214 Senate Avenue, Suite 503
Camp Hill, PA 17011
Telephone Number: (717) 731-0988
Attorneys for Defendant, Steven Prough, Individually
and d/b/a Prough Electric
TIMOTHY AND LESLIE THUMMA
AND
KEMPER AUTO & HOME INSURANCE
COMPANY A/S/O TIMOTHY AND
LESLIE THUMMA,
PLAINTIFFS
VS.
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
No. 2005 - 3703
HAUBERT HOMES, INC.
AND
STEVEN PROUGH, INDIVIDUALLY AND
D/B/A PROUGH ELECTRIC,
DEFENDANTS
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
VERIFICATION
I, Steven Prough, verify that the statements made in the foregoing Answer and
Crossclaim Pursuant to Pa. R.C.P. 2252(d) of Defendant, Steven ProuQh, Individually and d/b/a
Prough Electric, to Plaintiffs' Complaint which are within the personal knowledge of the
undersigned, are true and correct, and as to the facts based on the information of others, the
undersigned, after diligent inquiry, believe them to be true. And further, this Verification. Js
signed on the recommendation of my attorneys, who advise me that the allegations and language
in this document are required legally to raise issues for resolution at trial, by the Court, or by
continuing investigation and preparation for trial. I understand that some of these allegations
may prove inappropriate after investigation and trial preparation are complete and I leave the
determination of these matters to my attorneys on their advice.
I understand that all statements herein are made subject to the penalties of 18 Pa.C.S.A.
§4904, relating to unsworn falsifications to authorities.
/ ?r1
Dated:
to en Pr gh, Individually alld d/b/a
Prough Electric
05HB-00120
LAW OFFICES OF JACOBS & ASSOCIATES
214 Senate Avenue, Suite 503
Camp Hill, PA 17011
Telephone Number: (717) 731-0988
Attorneys for Defendant, Steven Prough, Individually
and d/b/a Prough Electric
TIMOTHY AND LESLIE THUMMA
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
AND
KEMPER AUTO & HOME INSURANCE
COMPANY A/S/O TIMOTHY AND
LESLIE THUMMA,
PLAINTIFFS
VS.
HALBERT HOMES, INC.
AND
STEVEN PROUGH, INDIVIDUALLY AND
D/B/A PROUGH ELECTRIC,
DEFENDANTS
No. 2005 - 3703
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
Donald R. Dorer, Esquire, hereby certifies that he is the attorney for the Defendant, Steven
Prough, Individually and d/b/a Prough Electric herein, and that he caused a true and correct copy
of the attached Praecipe to Substitute Verification to be served by regular first class mail upon:
Sean P. O'Donnell, Esquire
Cozen O'Connor
1900 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Attorney for Plaintiffs
Date: November 18, 2005
Thomas E. Brenner, Esquire
Goldberg, Katzman, P.C.
P.O. Box 1268
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1268
Attorney for Defendant, Haubert Homes, Inc.
Donald R. Dorer, Esquire
Attorney for Defendant, Steven Prough,
Individually and d/b/a Prough Electric
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TIMOTHY AND LESLIE THUMMA;
UNITRIN AUTO & HOME INSURANCE
COMPANY a/s/o Timothy and Leslie Thumma
Plaintiffs
V.
HAUBERT HOMES, INC.;
STEVEN PROUGH individually and d/b/a
PROUGH ELECTRIC
Defendants
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PA
CIVIL ACTION NO. 05-3703
STIPULATION TO SETTLE, DISCONTINUE AND END
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
It is hereby stipulated, by and between the parties that the above captioned matter be marked
"Settled, Discontinued and Ended" and dismissed with prejudice to the rights of any party to bring any
claim against the other, each party to bear its own costs.
COZEN O'CONNOR
1
EAN P. O'DONNELL, ESQ.
1900 Market Street
GO RG KATZMAN, P.C
THOMAS E. BRENNER, ESQ.
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Attorneys for Plaintiffs
SIN D ,&e )O.RRER ,
DONALD R. DORER, ESQ.
214 Senate Avenue
Suite 503
Camp Hill, PA 17011
Attorneys for Defendant Steven Prough
P.O. Box 1268
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1268
Attorneys for Defendant Haubert Homes
05HB-00120
LAW OFFICE OF SNYDER & DORER
214 Senate Avenue, Suite 503
Camp Hill, PA 17011
Telephone Number: (717) 731-0988
Attorneys for Defendant, Steven Prough, Individually
and d/b/a Prough Electric
TIMOTHY AND LESLIE THUMMA
AND
UNITRIN AUTO & HOME INSURNACE
COMPANY A/S/Q TIMOTHY AND
LESLIE THUMMA,
PLAINTIFFS
VS.
HAUBERT HOMES, INC.
AND
STEVEN PROUGH, INDIVIDUALLY AND
D/B/A PROUGH ELECTRIC,
DEFENDANTS
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
No. 2005 - 3703, CIVIL ACTION - LAW
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
Donald R. Dorer, Esquire, hereby certifies that he is the attorney for the Defendant, Steven
Prough, Individually and d/b/a Prough Electric herein, and that he caused a true and correct copy
of the attached Stipulation to Settle, Discontinue and End to be served by regular first class mail
upon:
Sean P. O'Donnell, Esquire
Cozen O'Connor
1900 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Attorney for Plaintiffs
Date: November 21, 2007
Thomas E. Brenner, Esquire
Goldberg, Katzman, P.C.
P.O. Box 1268
Harrisburg, PA 17108-148
Homes, Inc.
- Donald R. Dorer, Esquire
Attorney for Defendant, Steven Prough,
Individually and d/b/a Prough Electric
0
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