Russell Weiner, the founder of Rockstar Energy Drink, has filed a new lawsuit alleging that the project manager and general contractor for his waterfront estate in Miami Beach performed defective work without proper permits or approvals.
The complaint, brought by Weiner’s Pine Tree Development, names Andrea D’Alessio and his Inspirata Management Company, Deere Construction/Deere Industries, and Baco Engineering Contractor. The suit centers on alleged construction issues at 5011 and 5111 Pine Tree Drive, where Weiner is developing what he previously described to The Real Deal as “the most incredible estate in Miami.” Plans for the site include a new 30,000-square-foot mansion.
According to the lawsuit, some structures were built without required building permits or zoning approvals. Although certain work was completed through a private provider using a phased permit—which allows private review and inspection instead of city oversight—the complaint cites additional problems. These include improper installation of over 400 piles; inadequate filling, compaction, and grading of the site leading to sinkholes and soil instability after rain; incorrectly installed sewer lines that resulted in a stop-work order requiring rework of the entire project; and an unapproved generator pad.
Other issues mentioned involve reconstruction efforts on a historic boat house from the 1920s, discrepancies between approved plans and actual construction at the architecturally significant Collins estate at 5011 Pine Tree Drive, missing drainage infrastructure, and further examples of alleged improper construction.
Inspirata and D’Alessio have filed a motion to dismiss the case. A judge has not yet ruled on that motion.
“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 also stated that he expects his clients will be vindicated and intend to seek legal fees from Weiner if successful.
Weiner declined to comment on the ongoing litigation.
The relocation and preservation plans for the Collins estate were documented by the Miami Design Preservation League in 2023. The building was moved westward on the property. Originally designed by Russell Pancoast in the 1920s for Irving Collins—son of Miami Beach founder John Collins—the structure holds architectural significance.
Last year, anonymous neighbors raised concerns about construction practices at the site. They cited an allegedly forged notarized notice of commencement filed with Miami-Dade County—a document required to begin permitted construction projects locally.
Pine Tree Development first sued D’Alessio last fall following coverage by The Real Deal regarding potential issues with construction management. An amended complaint filed in December accused D’Alessio’s companies of overbilling and self-dealing.
It was further alleged that D’Alessio marketed himself as an experienced designer and contractor but lacked Florida licenses or certifications until May this year. D’Alessio denied these claims previously and stated that Weiner knew he was not acting as general contractor throughout much of their arrangement.
Francisco Touron III, representing Deere Construction/Deere Industries, declined to comment but wrote via email that his client intends to defend against what it calls “spurious claims.”
Weiner purchased both lots from David and Leila Centner in 2021 before hiring Inspirata as project manager with monthly payments nearing $41,000 tied to development services.
The current lawsuit alleges breach of contract, negligence, and breach of fiduciary duty. In response filings seeking dismissal, attorneys for Inspirata argue Pine Tree Development failed legal requirements necessary for such claims under Florida law—and note their agreement explicitly states Inspirata is not responsible for construction itself.
Weiner also owns an adjacent property at 5101 Pine Tree Drive acquired through foreclosure proceedings involving Richard and Maria Meruelo. Demolition began recently on this middle parcel according to records showing a signed notice last week; Miami Beach regulations allow aggregation of up to three contiguous parcels if used primarily for expanded yards or accessory structures like pools or cabanas.
