An unlicensed subcontractor hired by San Jose, California-based Full Power Properties allegedly held 22 workers in captivity and recently paid the workers for back wages, according to an announcement by the U.S. Department of Labor.
The subcontractor, Nobilis Construction, allegedly had employees living in captivity in a squalid warehouse owned by Nobilis’ owner. The Labor Department said the workers were underpaid, or even unpaid in some cases.
The Department said that Full Power Properties has paid $250,000 in back wages to the employees. The workers were involved with the Silvery Towers condominium property in San Jose and other large projects in the region.
Labor trafficking is a problem in the construction industry, typically taking place within small contracting firms working in residential and commercial roofing, carpentry, welding, electrical work, and masonry. Workers caught up in these illegal operations are typically undocumented immigrants or have H-2B work visas.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Nov 30, 2017
Asheville, N.C. rezoning favors pedestrians, could change city’s character
Focus is on layout and look of new buildings rather than use.
Codes and Standards | Nov 29, 2017
Many New York City landlords have not addressed new flood codes
City revised building codes after Superstorm Sandy, but many owners not required to upgrade.
Codes and Standards | Nov 28, 2017
Nail-Laminated timber Canadian design and construction guide released
Includes practical strategies and guidance with lessons from real-life projects.
Codes and Standards | Nov 27, 2017
New standard to monitor building sealing performance
Increased understanding of how materials act when stretched and compressed is the goal.
Codes and Standards | Nov 27, 2017
Denver voters approve green roof mandate
Buildings of 25,000 sf or larger required to install vegetative roof or PVs.
Codes and Standards | Nov 21, 2017
USGBC adopts ‘RELi’ resilient building and design standard
The standard prescribes methods for designing more resilient buildings and communities.
Codes and Standards | Nov 21, 2017
Updated material transparency web site and hazardous building materials list unveiled
Improved versions of tools aimed at use of healthier construction supplies.
Codes and Standards | Nov 16, 2017
White roofing isn’t always the best choice
Adverse effects include heat reflection onto nearby walls.
Codes and Standards | Nov 15, 2017
U.S. finalizes tariffs on Canadian softwood lumber
The duties would add 20% or more to cost if trade negotiators can’t find common ground.
Codes and Standards | Nov 15, 2017
NBI stretch code a tool for accelerating efficiency standards
It provides a strategy to leapfrog minimum code requirements.