Homeowner sues property insurer alleging it failed to pay leaky pipe claim

GRETNA – A local property insurance company is being sued by a homeowner who claims it wrongfully failed to pay for damages to his home caused by a leaky pipe.

Quyen Pham filed suit against Louisiana Citizen’s Property Insurance Corporation in the 24th Judicial District Court on March 16.

Pham contends that on Aug. 6, 2013 a pipe leaked at his home located at 813 Avenue B in Marrero. The plaintiff asserts that at the time of the incident he had a property insurance policy in place provided by Louisiana Citizen’s Property Insurance Corporation. Pham claims it has cost him $5,264.88 to mitigate damages from the leak, but that the defendant has failed to make any payments on his damages as are required under the insurance policy.

The defendant is accused of breach of contract, employing delay tactics, failing to pay all damages, failing to include all damages, failing to bring in qualified professionals, refusing to match the cost of damaged items, overly depreciating the value of the property,  refusing to explain the depreciation schedule, failing to timely or adequately pay for additional living expenses, failing to properly and timely communicate wit the insured, breach of contract and negligence.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for full value of property damage, loss of use, recoverable depreciation, mold damage and remediation, debris clean up and removal, cost of compliance, mental anguish, attorney fees and penalties.

Pham is represented by attorney Joseph "Joey" F. LaHatte III.

The case has been assigned to Division B Judge Cornelius E. Regan.

Case no. 747-715.