MIAMI-HUB — Partner James Fishman and Associate Matthew Allen recently achieved a significant win for a Florida-based property insurance company in a breach of contract case, effectively neutralizing a $200,000 damage claim.

Overview of the Case:

The plaintiffs, homeowners with a property insured by the company, experienced a minor bathroom backup incident. They claimed that the incident caused extensive damage due to the alleged failure of their cast-iron drain system and demanded full replacement. The insurance company, after thorough investigation by its field adjuster, scientist, and plumber, determined the damages were below the policy deductible and denied the claim. The homeowners then filed a lawsuit seeking over $200,000 in damages plus attorney's fees. 

Key Difference-Makers:

• Trial Participants:

  • James Fishman - Partner
  • Matthew Allen - Associate 

Claims Made Against Our Client:

The plaintiffs alleged that the insurance company breached its insurance contract by failing to cover the cost of replacing their entire sanitary line, which they claimed was necessary due to the alleged failure of the cast-iron drain system.

Defense Strategy:

Fishman and Allen argued that the plaintiffs' claim for extensive damages based on a minor water stain was unreasonable. They emphasized that there was no actual drain failure, and the existing cast-iron pipe was still functional after 63 years. They effectively demonstrated that the minor incident did not justify the extensive trenching and reconstruction demanded by the plaintiffs. 

Impact on Final Outcome:

After a four-day trial, the jury ruled in favor of the insurance company, finding that it did not breach its contract and awarding no damages to the plaintiffs. This decisive victory underscores the strength of QPWB's defense strategy and its commitment to protecting its clients' interests.

Predicting the Future:

This win reinforces QPWB's reputation for providing exceptional legal representation in property insurance disputes. The firm's strategic approach, combined with its attorneys' in-depth understanding of insurance law, ensures that clients facing similar claims receive the best possible defense.

About QPWB:

Quintairos, Prieto, Wood & Boyer, P.A., is the largest minority and women-owned law firm in the nation. QPWB serves a diverse range of industries with over 100 areas of practice, providing expert representation for businesses and their leaders in litigation, regulatory, and corporate matters.