How M/I Homes Uses This Clause
M/I Homes purchase agreements have been documented to include class action lawsuit waiver provisions. Arbitration provisions in new-construction purchase agreements frequently include class action waiver language. If present in an M/I Homes contract, this clause would prevent buyers from joining together in class action litigation over common construction defect issues, requiring each buyer to pursue claims individually through arbitration.
This provision typically appears within the purchase agreement alongside other terms that may limit buyer remedies. Because M/I Homes operates across multiple states, the enforceability and practical impact of this clause varies depending on where the home is located.
M/I Homes's scale means contract templates are largely standardized across its operations. A clause identified in one market's contract is likely present in other markets' contracts, though local addenda may modify the terms.
Builder-Specific Details
Combined with Mandatory Arbitration
Combined with mandatory arbitration, buyers cannot pursue class relief in any forum.
Regional Contract Patterns
M/I Homes operates in a more focused geographic footprint. Contract terms may vary somewhat between markets, but documented patterns tend to be consistent across the builder's operating states.
Standard Form Contract
This clause appears in M/I Homes's standard purchase agreement, which is generally presented on a take-it-or-leave-it basis. Buyers typically have limited ability to negotiate individual terms, though making the request in writing is still advisable.
State-by-State Enforceability
Enforceability of this clause varies by state. The following reflects M/I Homes's operating states.
| State | Status | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Ohio | Likely Enforceable | Class action waivers in Ohio new construction contracts are likely enforceable when included in... |
| Indiana | Likely Enforceable | Class action waivers in Indiana new construction contracts are likely enforceable when included in... |
| Michigan | Likely Enforceable | Class action waivers in Michigan new construction contracts are likely enforceable when paired with... |
| Illinois | Likely Enforceable | Class action waivers in Illinois new construction contracts are likely enforceable when paired with... |
| North Carolina | Likely Enforceable | Class action waivers in North Carolina new construction contracts are likely enforceable when paired... |
| South Carolina | Likely Enforceable | Class action waivers in South Carolina new construction contracts are likely enforceable when paired... |
| Florida | Likely Enforceable | Class action waivers in Florida new construction contracts are likely enforceable when included in... |
| Texas | Likely Enforceable | Class action waivers in Texas new construction contracts are likely enforceable, particularly when... |
| Tennessee | Likely Enforceable | Class action waivers in Tennessee new construction contracts are likely enforceable when paired with... |
| Minnesota | Likely Enforceable | Class action waivers in Minnesota new construction contracts are likely enforceable when paired with... |
| Virginia | Likely Enforceable | Class action waivers in Virginia new construction contracts are likely enforceable when paired with... |
| Pennsylvania | Likely Enforceable | Class action waivers in Pennsylvania new construction contracts are likely enforceable when paired... |
| Maryland | Likely Enforceable | Class action waivers in Maryland new construction contracts are likely enforceable when paired with... |
| Georgia | Likely Enforceable | Class action waivers in Georgia new construction contracts are likely enforceable, particularly when... |
| Colorado | Likely Enforceable | Class action waivers in Colorado new construction contracts are likely enforceable when paired with... |
Related Clauses in M/I Homes Contracts
This clause often works in combination with other provisions in M/I Homes's purchase agreements.
Combined with mandatory arbitration, buyers cannot pursue class relief in any forum.
Homeowners with similar habitability defects cannot combine their claims into a single action.
Individual claims under the liability cap may be too small to pursue, and class aggregation is prohibited.
What Buyers Can Do
- Understand what the class action waiver means for community-wide issues. If multiple homes in your community have the same defect, this clause prevents you from joining together to pursue a shared claim. Each buyer must pursue their claim individually.
- Document everything from the start. If you cannot join a class action, your individual claim must stand on its own. Thorough documentation from before and after closing strengthens your position.
- Have the full contract scanned before signing. This clause is often one of several interconnected provisions in M/I Homes contracts that collectively limit buyer remedies. A contract scan can identify all of them.