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 | Dec 28, 2020
Dept. of Energy offers Better Buildings Field Validation Results Hub
One-stop-shop for information associated with technology validations in buildings.
Codes and Standards | Dec 28, 2020
2021 Defense Authorization Act includes mass timber provision
Directs defense, agriculture secretaries to review potential for wood frame construction on defense building projects.
Codes and Standards | Dec 28, 2020
New York City proposal would require rainwater detention tanks for new development
Rule would apply to projects on lots sized 20,000 sf or larger.
Codes and Standards | Dec 17, 2020
Energy efficiency as a service gaining ground as financing approach for adopting innovations
Building owners can invest in new technology with no upfront cost.
Codes and Standards | Dec 16, 2020
Resources available to address Legionella threat
Buildings reopened after extended pandemic closure are at risk.
Codes and Standards | Dec 16, 2020
New Specifications for Concrete Construction reference manual released
Scope expanded to include shotcrete, internal curing, mineral fillers, and recycled concrete aggregates.
Codes and Standards | Dec 15, 2020
Despite COVID-19 population flight, don’t write off big cities yet
Lure of urban life and jobs may draw people back after pandemic subsides.
Codes and Standards | Dec 10, 2020
Test method for vertical fenestration installation procedures updated
FGIA issues first update for document created in 2005.
Codes and Standards | Dec 10, 2020
Updated EPDs for Polyiso Roof and Wall Insulation; EPD for Polyiso High-Density Cover Boards published
Cover Boards EPD is an industry first.
Codes and Standards | Dec 9, 2020
Newly formed Rainscreen Association aims to be recognized authority on rainscreen assemblies
Will address innovations in material performance and building designs.