Hovnanian’s New York City townhouse renovation lands developer in court

From the New York site: Hovnanian Enterprises CEO Ara Hovnanian has been accused of wreaking havoc on his neighbor’s brownstone home while renovating his own West 4th Street townhouse in Manhattan.

Film and music producer Daniel Kramer, in a negligence lawsuit filed in New York State Supreme Court, is seeking at least $3 million in damages as well as a permanent injunction to halt the renovation.

A construction crew – allegedly working without a permit – broke windows, cracked walls and ceilings, and caused water leaks and mold, the suit claims.

Kramer’s adjacent $10 million landmark home completed a $3 million, 13-year renovation in 2011. He also accused Hovnanian of repeatedly breaching a construction licensing agreement to maintain the safety and structural integrity of Kramer’s home, the New York Post said.

Construction began in October on Hovnanian’s home, which he purchased in July 2012. The Buildings Department issued a violation after a brick crashed through two floors, the suit said. The Landmarks Preservation Commission issued a permit to Hovnanian in March. Hovnanian did not comment to the Post. [NYP] – Mark Maurer