Action 9: Dirty Pool Has Homeowner Seeing Red

Joe Piccarillo spent more than $30,000 creating a backyard oasis, but now his in-ground pool is being ruined by red clay.

He says its coming from nearby. through woods where land is being cleared for more new homes.

Piccarillo says the problem with dirt in his pool started in the spring of 2005. He’s paid a lot of money out of his own pocket since then to have the pool professionally cleaned.

"So far to date, we're at about $1,800," he said.

But Piccarillo has had no luck getting the company building the new homes, Standard Pacific Homes, to reimburse him. They've offered $250, and now won't talk to him anymore.

"If we did this to someone's property, it would be called vandalism. But because it’s construction, I guess it’s OK," he said.

Action 9 made contact with Standard Pacific Homes. Representatives said it’s not clear the damages are the result of their activities.

The company did agree, however, to pay Piccarillo about $1,200 toward his old cleanup bill. Now he’s wondering about his new cleanup bill.

“So that's another $1,800 we’re going to have to spend, so the little bit they offered really isn't coming close to cover the initial cost, not to mention the future cost," he said.

Piccarillo said his next step might be small claims court. He wants to get a judgment to cover all his cleanup costs.