Federal Judge Rules Against Insured in Sinkhole Damage Lawsuit

TAMPA, Fla. - A federal judge ruled Jan. 4 that a mobile home policy provision limiting sinkhole coverage to 'direct physical loss' doesn't obligate an insurer to pay to secure the home's foundation. Harris v. Voyager Indemnity Co., No. 05-cv-2011 (M.D. Fla.).

In granting Voyager Indemnity Insurance Co.'s motion for summary judgment, Judge Susan C. Bucklew of the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida also ruled that a blanket mold exclusion barred any claim for mold damage even if related to problems caused by sinkhole activity.

Christopher Harris filed his claim in September 2004 after he …