S. L. Rowland Construction Co. V. St. Paul Fire And Marine Insurance Co‪.‬

Respondent, a building contractor, who was engaged in the development of an area near Tacoma known as "Robin Hood Estates," on June 19, 1961, sold a completed house located in that area to the Reverend John G. Kuethe and his wife. October 7, 1962, the house was substantially damaged by fire. Mr. Kuethe commenced suit against respondent, alleging in his amended complaint that wooden floor joists, or headers, had been placed in contact with, or in  close proximity to, the firebox of an upstairs fireplace in such a manner that they were caused to ignite when the fireplace was used. Mr. Kuethe sought damages totaling $19,048.21, which amount included $13,351.52 depreciation to the house, $159.32 representing the cost of a tarpaulin he was forced to place over the roof,