Stormwater Litigation: Protect Your Property And Your Dreams
Stormwater damage is an increasingly prevalent issue across the entire Southeastern USA, particularly areas with booming commercial, mixed-use and residential developments. Developers often over-excavate land and densely pack structures onto these parcels, disregarding adequate management of stormwater, sediment and soil runoff. Additionally, adjacent parcel owners, in efforts to improve their parcel, may intentionally, or even inadvertently, alter the natural flow of stormwater, sediment and soil runoff onto your property. This intentional tort and/or negligence can lead to significant flooding and resulting water damage to existing structures, commodities, etc. on your parcel. For all property owners, inadequate stormwater measures can mean not just property damage, but the loss of goods and the American dream, to wit: property ownership.
At Lannon Land Litigation Local Law, PLLC, attorney Andrew “Andy” Lannon understands the frustration and helplessness that can come with stormwater, sediment and soil runoff that has been redirected from its natural watercourse. He can help you take legal action to pursue accountability and compensation from those responsible for your losses. With over 20 years of experience, Andy is one of the only attorneys in the entire USA who handles these niche types of cases. Andy is able to understand the complexities of stormwater litigation due to his years of knowledge obtained as a City Attorney working with engineers and experts from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, St. Johns River Water Management District, Melbourne-Tillman Water Control District, Brevard County and the City of Palm Bay whilst trying to address hundreds of millions of dollars in infrastructure needs and failures in a former General Development community.
What Is Stormwater, And What Damage Can It Cause?
Stormwater refers to the accumulation of runoff that flows over the ground surface after rain. In central Florida’s humid subtropical climate, stormwater management is a major concern for property development. Unfortunately, far too many developers cut corners to save costs, exposing nearby property owners to needless risks such as:
- Erosion: The force of moving water can erode landscaping and soil, weakening structures and leading to costly repairs.
- Flooding: Inadequate drainage can cause water to pool, flooding properties and causing structural damage to foundations and buildings.
- Contamination: Stormwater can pick up pollutants, chemicals and debris as it flows, contaminating water supplies and damaging ecosystems.
- Infrastructure damage: Overwhelmed drainage systems can break down, leading to further water management issues and repair expenses.
These risks are especially significant during Florida’s rainy months and hurricane season.
Who Is Responsible For Stormwater Damage?
Determining responsibility for stormwater damage can be complex, but generally, the following parties might be held liable:
- Developers and contractors: These parties can be held accountable if they fail to implement adequate stormwater management measures during construction.
- Municipalities: Local governments may be liable if public drainage systems are inadequate or poorly maintained.
- Property owners: In some cases, property owners might be responsible if their actions or lack of proper maintenance contributes to the damage.
Attorney Lannon is highly skilled at identifying the negligent parties and pursuing them through legal action. He routinely handles lawsuits against negligent developers for stormwater issues.
Pursue Compensation For Stormwater Damage
If your property has sustained stormwater damage, contact Lannon Land Litigation Local Law, PLLC at 407-775-2567 to discuss whether you have a legal claim. You shouldn’t have to shoulder the expenses of damage caused by greedy developers or other negligent parties. The firm will work tirelessly to help you recover compensation.