ShouldI retaina lawyerprior to dealing with a claims adjuster regarding severe mold damage to my home?
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ShouldI retaina lawyerprior to dealing with a claims adjuster regarding severe mold damage to my home?
A refrigerator was installed improperly in my home about 8 months ago, causing a leak in a waterline which steadily sprayed water into the walls. It remained unnoticed for a long time due to the water beings sprayed into the walls. Once the smell and mold became visible severe damage was already done, and the mold has become airborne and spread throughout the home. Floors, walls, ceilings, all have visable mold and rot. Ruined personal property, lost rent, and concerns for health issues of myself and tenants. Concerned about ever being able to sell my home with mold and water damage history.
Asked on October 24, 2010 under Insurance Law, South Carolina
Answers:
S.L,. Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
Without making any commitment, you could wait for the claims adjuster to make a settlement offer and if you regard the offer as inadequate, retain an attorney at that time to sue the party who installed the refrigerator for negligence.
The settlement offer will probably be inadequate. Although you could retain an attorney prior to speaking with the claims adjuster, if the settlement offer is acceptable to you, then you will be paying the attorney 1/3 or possibly more of the settlement. That is why it would be advisable to see what the claims adjuster is offering and if it is inadequate, then retain an attorney.
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