Court Opinion

ID: 9704949
Source: CourtListenerOpinion
Date Created: 2023-08-26 00:52:53.80609+00
Date Added: 2024-06-11T18:22:06.457451
License: Public Domain

Larson, J.
(concurring specially) In view of the fact that this case is to be retried, it should be kept in mind — as stated by the plaintiff in his testimony — the arrangement with the defendant was not a contractor bid job. This is evidenced by the fact the defendant was paid on a cost plus basis. It is obvious *1318from a study of the evidence there were no specific plans and specifications as a part of any agreement. It is true a general plan provided by the manufacturer of a grain elevator was used as a guide in the planning of the building. However, the 'plaintiff approved of the pitch of the roof after a preliminary decision had been made as the result of placing the proposed rafters on the ground. The plaintiff was the architect more so than the defendant, who was only the builder. The plaintiff had altered the original plans regarding the width and length. It is quite apparent it was plaintiff’s changes in the original plans which resulted in the lowered roof. It is also apparent the plaintiff desired and authorized the changes which were made without knowing or realizing what the result would be. When the changed plans did not work out satisfactorily plaintiff sought to blame the defendant. The resulting condition of the building was not brought about by reason of any error or mistake on the part of the defendant.
Under the facts disclosed in the evidence I would hold the defendant’s motion for judgment should have been sustained. The evidence does not justify the submission of the case to the jury on this issue. The plaintiff failed to prove a definite contract, and where no contract has been proved there could be no breach of it and consequently there could be no recovery of damages. Upon retrial, if there is no material change in the evidence, the action against the defendant should be dismissed, except for any damage resulting from faulty workmanship.