Man sues property insurer after fire

NEW ORLEANS – A local man is suing his insurance company after it failed to pay his damages after a fire on his property.

Samuel Martin filed suit against Southern Fidelity Insurance Company in the Orleans Parish Civil District Court on Dec. 10.

Martin alleges that Southern Fidelity Insurance Company (SFIC) owes him a settlement from a fire that occurred on his property on Dec. 30, 2011. He asserts that his insurance policy provided coverage in the event of a fire.

SFIC is accused of refusing to pay for all damages sustained after having conducted an investigation and determining a satisfactory proof of loss.

SFIC is being sued for breach of contract.

Martin is suing for loss of property and repair expenses. SFIC filed a notice of removal on Jan. 17. The company argued that Martin lives in Texas and the amount in controversy exceeds $75,000, rendering this court an improper venue.

SFIC is represented by Mandeville attorneys Matthew D. Monson of the Monson Law Firm LLC.

Plaintiff is represented by Brian J. Houghtaling of Huber, Slack, Houghtaling, Pandit & Thomas.

Case is assigned to Division N Judge Ethel S. Julien.
Case no. 2013-11631.