Lakeland, Florida Cast Iron Pipe Water Damage Claim
Williams Law Association, P.A. $125,000 Recovered for Denied Cast Iron Pipe Claim
Williams Law Association, P.A. successfully recovered $125,000 for a Lakeland, Florida homeowner whose insurance claim was initially denied after their home sustained significant water damage caused by deteriorating cast iron plumbing. The insurer refused to pay, citing policy exclusions and insufficient proof, but our legal team stepped in, challenged the denial, and secured a full payout.
Case Overview: Hidden Water Damage from Cast Iron Pipes
The homeowner discovered widespread water damage beneath the floors and inside the walls, which was later traced to failing cast-iron pipes, a common issue in Florida homes built before the 1970s.
The damage impacted:
- Structural components of the home
- Interior flooring and drywall
- Personal property exposed to long-term leakage
The insurer refused to pay despite submitting documentation of active damage, repair estimates, and plumbing inspection reports. They claimed:
- The damage was not sudden or accidental
- The cause fell under the “maintenance issue” exclusion
- There was insufficient evidence of a covered peril
Once retained, our team immediately launched a detailed investigation. We:
- Hired plumbing experts to provide forensic analysis and video scope evidence
- Compiled photographic and moisture mapping proof of active damage
- Cited case law and policy interpretations that support coverage for resulting water damage, even when caused by aged plumbing
Through aggressive negotiation and a clear presentation of the facts, we compelled the insurer to reverse the denial and pay a $125,000 settlement.
Why Does This Type of Claim Matter for Florida Homeowners?
Cast iron pipe claims are among Florida’s most frequently denied insurance claims. Many insurers classify the damage as preexisting or maintenance-related, even when the policyholder has clear evidence of sudden water damage. Williams Law Association, P.A. has a proven track record of fighting these unfair denials and recovering full compensation for clients with cast-iron pipe damage.