
When unexpected ground movement strikes, it can cause more than just cracked walls and shifted foundations—it can leave you facing an uphill battle with your insurance company. Even in a city like New Orleans, where major seismic activity is rare but subsidence and other forms of earth movement are common concerns, insurers often use that rarity or the specific cause to their advantage, denying or undervaluing legitimate claims for related structural impacts. If your property has been damaged by an earthquake or any related earth movement, Daly & Black, P.C. is here to fight for you.
Our New Orleans earthquake and earth movement property damage attorneys understand the tactics insurance companies use to avoid paying what is owed under your policy. We go ALL IN. ALL THE TIME. to help you pursue the full compensation you may be entitled to—so you can rebuild and move forward with confidence.
Get in touch with Daly & Black P.C. today and schedule a free consultation.
Common Earthquake-Related Property Damages
While New Orleans isn’t located on a major fault line, small tremors and ground shifts can still cause significant property damage. According to national data, annual property damage from earthquakes in the U.S. totals approximately $4.4 billion. Even minor seismic events can compromise structural integrity, especially in older buildings not designed to withstand such forces.
Common earthquake damages include:
- Structural cracks in walls, ceilings, and floors
- Foundation shifts and settlement
- Damage to utility lines (gas, water, electrical)
- Water intrusion due to compromised building envelope
- Business interruption losses for commercial property owners
Insurance companies may argue that such damage was “preexisting” or not caused by seismic activity—leaving you with mounting repair bills and no clear path to recovery. That’s where our legal team comes in.
Challenges of Filing Earthquake Insurance Claims in New Orleans
Navigating earthquake insurance claims in New Orleans presents unique challenges. Many property owners are unaware that standard property insurance policies typically exclude earthquake damage unless specific coverage is added. Even with coverage in place, insurers often:
- Cite complex policy language to deny claims
- Claim that damage was due to “normal settling” or unrelated causes
- Undervalue repair costs, offering partial payments
- Deny coverage for related business interruption losses
For commercial property owners, these challenges can be even more complex. Large-scale property losses, operational disruptions, and specialized structural repairs require experienced legal advocacy.
Statute of Limitations for Earthquake Insurance Claims in Louisiana
One of the most critical legal issues in property damage claims is timing. As of July 1, 2024, the statute of limitations for filing property damage claims related to damage to immovable property in Louisiana is two years from the date the damage was discovered or should have been discovered. This change reflects updates to Louisiana Civil Code Articles 3493.11 and 3493.12, which govern delictual actions and property-related losses.
While this is the default legal timeline, many insurance policies include contractual limitations that attempt to shorten the window for filing a claim, sometimes to as little as one year.
Missing the legal deadline could mean forfeiting your right to recover compensation. If you have questions about your policy’s deadlines or your legal rights, we can provide the clarity you need. The New Orleans earthquake property damage attorneys at Daly & Black can help you act decisively and within the legal timeframe.
Live in New Orleans but Own Property in Texas? We’ve Got You Covered
If your primary residence is in New Orleans but your property loss occurred in Texas, you don’t have to choose between proximity and qualified legal counsel. Daly & Black, P.C. has offices in both Louisiana and Texas and represents clients across both states seamlessly.
Whether your Texas property was damaged in an earthquake or another covered event, you can work directly with our New Orleans team while benefiting from our full licensing and litigation capabilities in Texas courts. Our attorneys routinely handle cross-state claims and understand the nuances of both jurisdictions.
Here’s what that means for you:
- Local accessibility with no compromise on legal reach
- Personalized support from a team that knows your home state and the state where your property is located
- One unified legal team fighting for you across state lines
How a New Orleans Earthquake Property Damage Attorney Can Help
If you suspect earthquake damage to your property, hiring an experienced attorney can make all the difference. Daly & Black, P.C. is ready to go ALL IN against bad-faith insurers who aim to avoid the contractual obligations they have towards their clients.
Here’s how we help:
- Policy review: We analyze your insurance policy to determine coverage and identify any loopholes the insurer may exploit.
- Damage assessment: We work with structural engineers and damage experts to document the full scope of losses.
- Negotiation: We handle all communications with your insurer, aggressively pursuing a fair settlement.
- Litigation: If necessary, we take your case to court to pursue the full compensation you may be entitled to.
Whether you own a home or commercial property, our team has the expertise to help you navigate this complex process.
The Daly & Black Difference
When you’re dealing with the aftermath of property damage caused by an earthquake, choosing the right legal team is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make. Daly & Black, P.C. is more than just a law firm—we’re your partner in the fight for justice. Here’s why property owners across New Orleans trust us:
Relentless Advocacy
We don’t just represent clients—we go to war on their behalf. Whether we’re holding insurers accountable for bad-faith tactics or challenging undervalued claims in court, we fight with everything we’ve got. Your case will never be sidelined or handed off. At Daly & Black, you receive the full focus of a dedicated and experienced legal team.
Proven Results
Daly & Black has earned a national reputation for excellence in insurance litigation. With years of experience and millions recovered for our clients, our record speaks volumes. We’ve been honored multiple times as a Litigation Firm of the Year finalist, including a national win. Proof of the results we deliver and the reputation we’ve earned among peers and clients alike. When outcomes matter, our results set us apart.
Personalized Representation
No two property damage claims are the same. That’s why we tailor our legal strategies to meet your specific needs. From your first consultation to the resolution of your case, we guide you through the legal process with the clarity you need to be at ease.
Comprehensive Support
Earthquake-related losses can affect not just structures, but livelihoods—especially for commercial property owners. We understand how these claims can ripple through your business and financial future. We work to recover what you need to stabilize and move forward.
All In, All the Time
When we say we’re ALL IN, we mean it. Our commitment to our clients isn’t just a catchphrase—it’s the foundation of our practice. At Daly & Black, you’re our partner in the pursuit of justice, and we won’t rest until you’ve been heard, helped, and compensated.
Take the First Step Toward Securing Your Earthquake Insurance Payout
Don’t let your insurance company dictate the outcome of your claim. Let Daly & Black fight for every dollar owed to you under your policy.
At Daly & Black, you’re not just hiring a law firm, you’re enlisting a team with a relentless hunger to do right by their clients on a contingency fee basis. Reach out now to get started.
Schedule your free consultation with a New Orleans earthquake property damage attorney today.
FAQ
Are earthquakes even covered by insurance in New Orleans?
Generally, standard property insurance policies in New Orleans do not cover earthquake damage. Coverage is typically available through an added endorsement or separate earthquake policy. It’s important to review your policy carefully—and if your insurer is denying a valid claim, an attorney can help you fight back.
What should I do immediately after discovering earthquake damage to my property?
First, document all visible damage with photos and videos. Then, notify your insurance company promptly. Avoid making permanent repairs until an adjuster inspects the property. Finally, consult an experienced New Orleans earthquake property damage attorney to ensure your claim is properly documented and protected.
Why should I hire an earthquake property damage attorney in New Orleans?
Insurance companies often use complex language and bad-faith tactics to delay or deny earthquake-related claims. An experienced attorney can level the playing field—conducting a thorough policy review, building a strong case, negotiating aggressively, and pursuing litigation when necessary. With Daly & Black on your side, you’ll have a team that’s ALL IN. ALL THE TIME. to help you recover the full compensation you may be entitled to.