Champlain Towers South, a 12-story oceanfront condo in Surfside, Florida, just outside of Miami, partially collapsed on June 24, 2021 at 1:25 a.m. The devastating collapse resulted in 97 confirmed deaths and 11 injuries, making it one of the most fatal in U.S. history.   

What Caused the Champlain Towers Collapse? 

The Towers are believed to have collapsed due to water penetration in the steel-reinforced concrete support beams in the underground parking garage and an investigation is ongoing.  The problems were first detected in 2018, and by April 2021, they had not been addressed and had worsened.  

Prior to the collapse, Champlain Towers received approval of a $15 million project to make repairs, however no major structural work had been done at the time of the collapse. Sinking ground levels coupled with insufficient steel reinforcement within the concrete beams, and construction negligence are all considered factors in the collapse. 

Why Property Claims Will Likely Be Paid Before Civil Suits 

Michael Hanzman, a Miami-Dade judge, spoke at an open hearing on July 16 about the numerous claims that would be made against Champlain Towers and the monumental task of awarding compensation to those who were affected by the Towers’ careless construction. 

Unfortunately, the building was underinsured at the time of the collapse and likely will not have enough assets to fairly compensate all parties impacted by the event for loss of life and property. Because the building had more property insurance, construction litigation claims are likely to “trump” other civil suits, like personal injury and wrongful death, explained Judge Hanzman. 

Did You Suffer Damages In the Surfside Tower Collapse? We Can Help 

If you suffered property or other damages as a result of the Champlain Towers collapse, you may have the option to bring forward a lawsuit against the owners and managers of the building for improper construction. However, with so many lawsuits already being levied against the Towers, it’s important to act quickly. 

Although the investigation is currently ongoing at the time of writing, experts weighing in are already suggesting that the case for negligence is clear, particularly due to the fact that a sizable sum of money had been obtained for repairs but had not yet been used. 

Contact Feinstein Real Estate Litigation & Business Law for a consultation to find out if you may have a claim for compensation by calling 954-767-9662 (Fort Lauderdale), 561-981-6212 (Boca Raton,) or 305-728-5267 (Miami).