Monday - Thurs8AM - 5PM
Fri8AM-1PM
Offices4608 Rye St Metairie, LA 70006
PRACTICE AREASWater Damage Attorney – Slidell & Metairie
Water damage can cause serious and costly problems for homes, businesses, and personal property. Leaking pipes, plumbing failures, storms, flooding, roof damage, and other sources of water can damage walls, flooring, electrical systems, furniture, and other belongings. When an insurance company denies, delays, or undervalues a legitimate water damage claim, property owners may need legal assistance to protect their rights. At Frank D’Amico, Jr., we help property owners navigate water damage and insurance disputes, evaluate the extent of their losses, review insurance coverage, and pursue the compensation they may be entitled to receive.
Common Causes of Water Damage
- Burst or Leaking Pipes – Broken, frozen, or deteriorating pipes can release large amounts of water and cause extensive property damage.
- Plumbing Failures – Damaged plumbing fixtures, clogged drains, and failed water lines can result in leaks and flooding.
- Roof Leaks – Damaged or deteriorated roofing can allow rainwater to enter a home or business and damage the interior.
- Storm Damage – Heavy rain, hurricanes, severe storms, and other weather events can cause water to enter and damage a property.
- Flooding – Rising water from heavy rainfall, overflowing waterways, or other sources can cause extensive structural and personal property damage.
- Appliance Leaks – Washing machines, water heaters, dishwashers, refrigerators, and other appliances can leak or fail and cause water damage.
- Sewer or Drain Backups – Blocked or damaged sewer and drainage systems can cause contaminated water to enter a property.
- Foundation Problems – Cracks or other foundation issues can allow water to enter basements, crawl spaces, and other areas.
- Poor Maintenance – Failure to properly maintain plumbing, roofing, drainage, or other systems can contribute to water-related losses.
- Firefighting Water – Water used to extinguish a fire can cause additional damage to a property and personal belongings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do after my property suffers water damage?
Take reasonable steps to protect yourself and prevent additional damage when it is safe to do so. Document the damage with photographs and video, notify your insurance company as required by your policy, and keep records of repairs, restoration costs, and other expenses.
Will my insurance cover water damage?
Coverage depends on the source of the water, the terms of your insurance policy, and any applicable exclusions. Water damage caused by a sudden plumbing failure may be treated differently from damage caused by flooding, groundwater, or long-term maintenance problems.
What if my insurance company denies my water damage claim?
A denied claim does not necessarily mean you are not entitled to coverage. Frank D’Amico, Jr. can review your insurance policy, investigate the cause and extent of the damage, and examine the reasons given by the insurance company for denying your claim.
What if the insurance company says the damage was caused by flooding?
The cause of water damage can be an important issue in an insurance dispute. If the insurer claims the damage resulted from flooding or another excluded cause, evidence such as photographs, inspections, plumbing records, weather information, and expert evaluations may help establish what caused the loss.
What if my insurance company's estimate is too low?
You do not necessarily have to accept an insurance company’s estimate if it does not adequately reflect the cost of repairing or replacing your damaged property. Repair estimates, contractor assessments, photographs, and other documentation may help establish the full extent of your losses.
Can I recover compensation for mold caused by water damage?
Mold can develop after water enters a property, particularly when the affected areas are not properly dried or restored. Whether mold-related damage is covered depends on the circumstances and the terms of your insurance policy.
Can I recover the cost of temporary housing?
Depending on your insurance coverage, you may be entitled to additional living expenses if covered water damage makes your home temporarily uninhabitable. Keep receipts and records of temporary housing, meals, and other reasonable expenses.
How should I document my water damage?
Take photographs and videos of affected areas, damaged belongings, standing water, visible leaks, and other evidence of the loss. Keep repair estimates, invoices, receipts, inspection reports, and correspondence with your insurance company.
How long do I have to file a water damage claim?
The applicable deadline can depend on your insurance policy and the law governing your claim. Your policy may also require prompt notice of the loss. It is important to review your policy and seek legal advice as soon as possible.
Do I need an attorney for a water damage claim?
An attorney can be helpful when an insurance company denies, delays, or undervalues your claim or disputes the source or extent of the damage. Frank D’Amico, Jr. can review your coverage, investigate your losses, communicate with the insurance company, and pursue the compensation you may be entitled to receive.