Millions Recovered After a Catastrophic Valve Failure

The Challenge

After resolving the building owner’s claims, our client sought reimbursement from the valve manufacturer, one of the nation’s largest plumbing suppliers.

Our Approach

We took a closer look and put the valve—and its manufacturer—under a microscope.

1. Forensic Thread Analysis
Laser measurements showed the threads on the failed valve provided 43% less contact surface area than industry standard—insufficient friction to maintain a secure connection. The threading, like Defendant’s explanations, simply could not hold up under pressure.

2. Pressure Testing the Valve Connection
The valve which failed had “injection molded” threads. The manufacturer had stopped using this process and was now producing valves with “machine cut threads.”  Laboratory pressure testing of both types of valves showed the injection molded threads were inferior and separated under normal water pressure.

3. The Manufacturer’s Knowledge and Conduct
Through discovery, we uncovered:

• Internal product advisories and a company‑wide recall for the subject value issued months before the valve was sold
• A directive to branches to “lock down” and “field scrap” the exact model that failed
• Dozens of prior customer complaints dating back years

The Result

Thanks to rigorous investigation, expert collaboration, and tenacity—we secured a large, seven‑figure recovery from a sophisticated national distributor.

This case exemplifies our brand promise:
We find the truth in the places others overlook—and deliver outcomes out of uncertainty.