One of the most difficult experiences that almost everybody will experience at some point in their lives is damage to their property. Sadly, there have been more Louisiana property damage claims than in most of the other parts of the country.
Indeed, most folks from Louisiana either suffered, or at the very least have friends or relatives who suffered, heartbreaking property losses from Hurricanes Andrew, Katrina and Rita. It will come as no surprise to them or anyone from Louisiana that Katrina is the most expensive hurricane in US history.
People get their property damaged in any number of ways, but it is often caused by somebody else’s negligence. When somebody else is responsible for the damage, a common question is whether you can sue to get the damaged property fixed to the way it was in or if you’re only able to get back the amount that your property has decreased in value because of the damage.
What if It Will Cost More to Fix My Property Than It’s Worth?
This is a situation that often comes up with property that has either been in a family for a long period of time or that holds some other sentimental value. Old property that may not be worth a ton of money can still be very important to its owners.
Thankfully, property owners are protected by Louisiana law. In a famous case Louisiana Supreme Court case, the Court explained that even if it would cost way more money to repair damaged property than it’s worth, the person bringing a Louisiana property damage claim could still get it repaired if:
1. The injured person has a personal reason for doing the repairs (ex. family property); or
2. There is reason to believe that the repairs will actually be completed.
These two exceptions can be powerful tools for protecting your property rights if you’ve suffered property damage.
Louisiana Property Damage Attorney
If your property has been damaged by somebody else or if your insurance company just isn’t treating you fairly, The Mahone Firm is here to help with your claim. Call (504) 564-7342 to speak with a New Orleans property damage lawyer today.
