According to the Journal of Environmental Management, cast iron pipes last about 80 to 100 years. Unfortunately, in coastal areas with subtropical climates, like many communities across Florida, these environmental conditions can also shorten the lifespan of cast iron pipes considerably.
Failing cast iron pipes can be extremely costly, and insurance companies might fight property owners’ claims for various reasons. You have the right to hire a lawyer who can handle your claim or lawsuit.
Factors that Can Reduce the Lifespan of Cast Iron Pipes
Saltwater intrusion and rising sea levels contribute to a faster corrosion rate. As a result, some cast iron pipes in Florida begin exhibiting problems within 25 years.
Florida homes build before 1975 usually have cast iron pipes, and many are beginning to crack and erode. Issues from cast iron pipes can become costly for homeowners or business owners since repairs or replacements can reach hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Filing a Cast Iron Pipe Insurance Claim in Florida
Some insurance policies cover old and worn cast iron pipes, but you can still face challenges when making a cast iron pipe claim in Florida. The Homeowner Bill of Rights states that insurers must cover the cost of repairs when necessary. If they refuse to honor a homeowner’s policy, you can argue that they are acting in bad faith, according to Florida Statutes § 624.155.
Even when the evidence is glaring, though, insurers can put up a fight. These large corporations usually have teams of defense attorneys at their disposal. You do not have to fight them alone, though. You have the right to hire a cast iron pipe lawsuit attorney.
A Florida Court ruled in an insurance company’s favor in a recent lawsuit over failed cast iron pipes. It claimed that rust and corrosion were acts of nature, thus exempting the insurer from covering the repairs or replacements.
How a Lawyer Can Help with Your Cast Iron Pipe Lawsuit
You have enough on your plate without dealing with an insurer. However, if you are having issues with your cast iron pipes, the plumbing in your home or business may be compromised. You may even be dealing with flooding and further property damage.
Your family, career, or business should come first. While you cope with the inconvenience, our cast iron pipe lawsuit lawyers can take some of the weight off your shoulders regarding the legal process. We can:
- File your cast iron pipe claim or lawsuit
- Gather evidence of broken, worn, or otherwise defective cast iron pipes on your property
- Consult experts, such as plumbing inspectors and public adjusters
- Handle all the paperwork associated with your case
- Negotiate using the terms of your insurance policy
- Protect you from bad faith practices
- Keep you updated on any progress in your case
We provide client-focused legal care and will give your case the attention to detail it deserves. Our lawyers work to make themselves available to answer your questions and keep you informed throughout the legal process. During a consultation, our team can explain more about how our firm can help you.
Repairing or Replacing Cast Iron Pipes
There are a few ways to approach failing cast iron pipes, but any repairs or replacements will generally be expensive. Some property owners may try to opt for pipelining, a process of installing a lining inside the existing cast iron pipes. These linings have certain benefits, such as being fire-resistant and insect resistant.
Though, this may not be an option if your cast iron pipes are severely damaged. In that case, you may opt for trenching, which requires you to break through the concrete slab of your floor to replace the pipe system, usually with PVC pipes.
Either method—and other methods—can run you tens of thousands of dollars or more. Additionally, your homeowner’s policy coverage may be limited. A cast iron pipe lawsuit attorney can review your policy to ensure you pursue its limits.
Additional Expenses Due to Failed Cast Iron Pipes
Another issue that can occur when your cast iron pipes fail involves your water usage. You may notice a sudden spike in your water usage, causing ever-increasing water bills over the months. Few families and businesses can afford such high spikes in their utility bills.
Work With a Cast Iron Pipe Lawsuit Lawyer in Florida
Failing cast iron pipes can become costly for a family or a business owner. In addition, insurance companies might look for any reason to undervalue or deny a cast iron pipe claim. Luckily, you can sue for cast iron pipe failure in Florida. Our cast iron pipe attorneys can help you.
Call GED Lawyers to learn more about how long cast iron pipes last and how we can help you with your claim or lawsuit.
