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LOUISIANA RECORD

Thursday, March 28, 2024

Marrero homeowner claims insurer manipulated software to provide lower property damage award

Insurance claim forms image

GRETNA – A property insurer is being sued by a customer who claims the damages to her Marrero home were not properly covered following a hailstorm after the insurer allegedly manipulated adjuster software.

Lardale V. Valentine filed suit against Louisiana Citizens Property Insurance Corporation in the 24th Judicial District Court on Feb. 24.

Valentine claims she owns a home at 3032 Sorbonne Drive in Marrero that was covered by a property insurance policy provided by Louisiana Citizens Property Insurance Corporation that was in effect when a hailstorm struck the area on Feb. 24, 2013. The plaintiff alleges her home received damages in the incident to its roof, interior, exterior and structure.

Valentine contends Louisiana Citizens Property Insurance Corporation failed to properly adjust the damages her home sustained and offered her a property insurance claim far lower than what the actual damage was worth. Further, the plaintiff asserts the defendant manipulated adjuster software used in adjusting her claim. to create a lower offer.

The defendant is accused of breach of contract, bad faith claims handling, negligence, non-prompt payment, negligent misrepresentation and violation of state law.

Damages in excess of $50,000 is sought for diminution in value of property, repair and remediation expenses, amount due under policy not previously paid, costs to hire investigative and engineering firms, property damage and attorney’s fees.

Valentine is represented by David A. Binegar of New Orleans-based Binegar Christian.

The case has been assigned to Division M Judge Henry G. Sullivan Jr.

Case no. 747-086.

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