Lighthouse Property Insurance sued by couple for breach of contract following alleged hailstorm damage

GRETNA – A Harvey couple is suing their homeowner’s insurer for allegedly not covering property damage from a hailstorm.

Jose Ramon Lopez and Blanca Lopez filed suit against Lighthouse Property Insurance Corporation in the 24th Judicial District Court on Feb. 24.

The Lopezes assert they contracted with Lighthouse Property Insurance Corporation to provide property insurance for their home located at 2248 Killington Drive in Harvey. The plaintiffs claim the insurance policy was in effect on Feb. 24, 2013 when a hailstorm struck the area and caused severe damage to their home’s roof that in turn allowed water to seep into the property further damaging the interior of the home and the couple’s belongings.

The Lopezes allege that despite adequate proof of their home's damage being submitted to Lighthouse Property Insurance Corporation in a timely manner the insurance company failed to properly adjust, estimate and pay their insurance claim. The plaintiffs contend the defendant provided them an insurance payout far less than the cost to repair the damages they incurred.

The defendant is accused of breach of contract, bad faith, negligent misrepresentation and violation of state law.

Damages in excess of $75,000 are sought for diminution in value of property, repair costs, amount due under the insurance policy, costs to hire investigative and engineering firms, property damage, loss of use, attorney’s fees and costs of litigation.

The Lopezes are represented by David A. Binegar of New Orleans-based Binegar Christian.

The case has been assigned to Division I Judge Nancy A. Miller.

Case no. 747-081.