Empire State Review Team 
West Islip Homeowners Sue Good Samaritan Hospital Over Construction Damage
LONG ISLAND – Over 30 residents in West Islip have initiated legal action against Good Samaritan Hospital, alleging that nearby construction activity is responsible for substantial damage to their homes. The lawsuit claims that vibrations and shockwaves have resulted in cracked walls and other significant structural issues.
Claims of Structural Damage
The affected homeowners contend that ongoing construction operations at the hospital have produced vibrations intense enough to replicate the sensation of an earthquake. Residents report that the shaking has been severe enough to move objects within their homes, as demonstrated by a video taken by one family that depicts pictures rattling on their walls.
The plaintiffs, including the Roth family, assert that the construction activities have caused foundational cracks, crumbling steps, and shifted windows, rendering their homes nearly unlivable. Consulting engineers have assessed the properties and found consistent patterns of damage, estimating that repairs will exceed $10 million.
The Hospital’s Response
In response to the lawsuit, Catholic Health, the parent organization of Good Samaritan Hospital, indicated that they have implemented measures to keep local residents informed about the construction process and to address any concerns that may arise. However, the hospital denies any connection between the construction activities and the reported damage.
Instead, representatives from Catholic Health attribute the damage claims to a separate FEMA-funded flood resiliency project currently in progress in the area.
Conclusion
This case underscores the potential impacts of large-scale construction projects on surrounding residential areas. As homeowners seek redress for their grievances, the outcome will likely hinge on investigative findings regarding the relationship between the construction vibrations and the reported property damage.
