10-Month Delay in Reporting Leak Deemed Late Notice

SEATTLE - A couple's 10-month delay in reporting a bathroom leak constituted late notice of a loss under their homeowner's policy and prejudiced the insurer, a Washington appellate court affirmed on March 20. Stone, et ux. v. Safeco Insurance Company of America, No. 34214-6-II (Wash. Ct. App., Div. 2).

By a 2-1 majority, the Court of Appeals of Washington, Division 2, affirmed summary judgment for Safeco Insurance Company of America, rejecting the insured's argument that they gave 'immediate notice' once outside inspectors reported the extent of water and mold damage in their home.

Paula Kay Stone and John Fanning reported …