Russell Weiner, founder of Rockstar Energy Drink, has filed a lawsuit against the project manager and general contractor involved in building his waterfront estate in Miami Beach. The suit alleges that work on the $100 million-plus property was completed without proper permits or approvals and that there were significant construction defects.
Weiner’s company, Pine Tree Development, submitted the complaint this summer targeting Andrea D’Alessio, his Inspirata Management Company, Deere Construction/Deere Industries, and Baco Engineering Contractor. The lawsuit focuses on issues discovered at 5011 and 5111 Pine Tree Drive.
The legal dispute is part of an ongoing conflict over the assemblage where Weiner plans to build a new 30,000-square-foot mansion. He previously described it as “the most incredible estate in Miami,” according to comments made to The Real Deal.
The complaint states that some structures were built without required building permits or zoning approvals. While some construction used private providers for inspections under phased permits—a process allowed by city rules—other alleged violations include improper installation of more than 400 piles; inadequate site preparation leading to sinkholes and erosion; incorrectly installed sewer lines resulting in a stop-work order; and unauthorized installation of a generator pad.
Additional claims involve discrepancies between approved plans and actual construction at the Collins estate at 5011 Pine Tree Drive—a property considered architecturally significant by the city—and missing drainage systems. There are also allegations about improper reconstruction of a historic boat house built in the 1920s.
On Monday, Inspirata and D’Alessio filed a motion to dismiss the case. A ruling from the judge is pending.
“Andrea [D’Alessio] is one of the most talented architects I’ve ever seen,” said Glen Waldman, attorney for Inspirata and D’Alessio. “We welcome the opportunity to have the court determine not only did he do nothing wrong, but this is personal vendetta by Mr. Weiner for reasons we can’t understand.”
Waldman added that he expects his clients will be vindicated and intends to seek legal fees from Weiner if successful.
Weiner declined to comment on the litigation.
In 2023, efforts to relocate and preserve the Collins estate were documented by preservation groups after moving it elsewhere on the property. The structure was originally designed by Russell Pancoast in the 1920s for Irving Collins, son of Miami Beach founder John Collins.
Last year, neighbors raised concerns about construction practices related to alleged forgery involving notices marking commencement of work—documents typically required alongside building permits issued by local authorities.
This latest lawsuit follows an earlier suit filed last fall after reporting by The Real Deal highlighted red flags at the project. An amended complaint later accused D’Alessio and related companies of overbilling and self-dealing schemes.
The December filing claimed D’Alessio promoted himself as an experienced designer but lacked appropriate Florida licenses until May this year. He denied wrongdoing and stated that Weiner knew he was not acting as general contractor during much of their agreement period.
Francisco Touron III, attorney for Deere Construction/Deere Industries, declined comment but wrote via email that they are “prepared to aggressively defend against Plaintiff’s spurious claims.”
Weiner purchased both lots from David and Leila Centner in 2021 before hiring Inspirata as project manager with monthly payments tied to design and development services totaling nearly $41,000 per month.
The current complaint alleges breach of contract, negligence, and breach of fiduciary duty. In response filings seeking dismissal, attorneys argue Pine Tree Development failed to meet legal standards for such claims under Florida law. They also state that contracts clearly indicate Inspirata was not responsible for construction activities themselves.
The properties at issue are adjacent parcels separated by another home at 5101 Pine Tree Drive—which Weiner acquired through foreclosure proceedings—and demolition work has recently begun there following approval documentation signed last week. Miami Beach regulations allow owners who control three contiguous lots certain development rights when using one parcel for accessory structures or expanded yards.
