Cast Iron Pipe Water Damage Claim

Case Result: $125,000 Recovered for Denied Cast Iron Pipe Claim

Williams Law, P.A. successfully recovered $125,000 for a 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, 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

When the homeowner filed a claim, the insurance company denied liability, arguing that the issue was gradual and excluded under the policy’s wear and tear clause.

Initial Insurance Offer: $0

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

This left the homeowner responsible for tens of thousands of dollars in repairs and no support from their insurer.

Williams Law, P.A. Fights the Denial

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 This Matters 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, P.A. has a proven track record of fighting these unfair denials and recovering full compensation for clients with cast iron pipe damage.