Retaining Wall Failure: Contractor Responsibility and Documentation

Signs of Improper Installation

Bowing walls, inadequate deadmen, missing drainage, and stairs pulling away indicate the landscaper cut corners. The contractor is responsible for correct engineering and code compliance.

Protect Yourself

1. Document everything: dated photos of bowing, gaps, water pooling.
2. Request the landscaper pay for an independent inspector (you choose).
3. If defects are confirmed, demand repair at no cost.
4. If refused, hire an attorney or contact a consumer‑watchdog reporter.

Rope off the area if collapse seems imminent.