Miami Condo Association Files Suit Against Insurer for Sandy Damage

Nearly two years ago, Superstorm Sandy roared up the east coast causing unprecedented damage in the northeast with storm-related costs totaling over 68 billion dollars. It quickly became the second costliest storm in U.S. history, trailing only Hurricane Katrina. While most of the severe damage occurred in New York and New Jersey, property owners throughout South Florida also felt its effects with rough surf, strong winds and periods of intense rain.

Miami-based Mirador 1000 Condominium Association Inc is now suing its insurer, Selective Insurance Co. claiming that the insurer failed to pay the full amount of damage resulting from serious flooding during the storm. According to the complaint, filed in Florida federal court, the company paid Mirador a mere $71,000 for the damages despite having an active policy with limits of $37.9 million for the building and $100,000 for its contents.

The plaintiff claims that although it paid all necessary premiums, upheld all terms of the contract and properly reported the loss in a timely fashion, Selective only issued partial payment, denying the balance of the claim, including the electrical damage that the building suffered. Attorneys for Mirador contend that Selective’s failure to pay for all damages constitutes breach of an insurance contract. Mirador hopes to recover compensatory damages and interest, as well as legal fees. The plaintiff has requested a jury trial to resolve the matter.

As this case illustrates, all too often insurance companies try to minimize claims and reduce the payout to property owners. If your home or property has suffered damage following a storm or fire and your insurer refuses to pay for losses, you need a highly skilled property insurance attorney. Attorney Pekar has handled property insurance claims, including sinkhole claims and hurricane claims, and liability claims in Tampa Bay and throughout Florida, and can help your receive the compensation you need to rebuild your home. Call us to schedule your free initial consultation.