Property Contamination Lawyer in West Texas

Land, water and air in West Texas can be damaged by oil and gas operations, pipelines, industrial plants and improperly handled waste. Contamination can harm your health, reduce your property's value and make land unusable. If your property or family has been affected, the Daspit Law Firm can investigate what happened and who is responsible.

What Is Property Contamination?

Property contamination happens when hazardous substances reach land, groundwater, surface water or air. In West Texas it is often linked to:

•       Crude oil, produced water and saltwater spills or leaks

•       Pipeline and storage tank ruptures

•       Drilling and hydraulic fracturing waste and chemicals

•       Abandoned or improperly plugged wells

•       Industrial and chemical plant releases

•       Hazardous vapors and emissions, including hydrogen sulfide

•       Naturally occurring radioactive material (NORM) brought to the surface by drilling

Failure to clean up waste or remove damaged equipment can also leave a property contaminated.

Who May Be Responsible?

Depending on the facts, responsible parties may include oil and gas operators, drilling and service contractors, pipeline companies, industrial site owners and waste handlers. Operators must follow state and federal environmental rules, including those of the Railroad Commission of Texas, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. A violation can be evidence of negligence, and contamination can also support claims for nuisance and trespass.

How Contamination Can Affect You

•       Illness and health problems from exposure to toxic substances

•       Contaminated well or drinking water

•       Reduced property value and difficulty selling

•       Damage to crops, livestock and grazing land

•       Costs of testing, cleanup and relocation

If you were exposed to hazardous chemicals, see our chemical exposure and toxic torts page.

Compensation You May Be Able to Recover

•       Property damage and loss of property value

•       Cleanup and remediation costs

•       Medical expenses and future medical care

•       Loss of use and enjoyment of your land

•       Lost income, including agricultural income

•       Exemplary damages in cases of gross negligence

What to Do If You Suspect Contamination

•       Do not disturb or clean the area. Preserve the evidence.

•       Take dated photos and video of spills, odors, stained soil, dead vegetation and affected water.

•       Keep records of illness, medical visits and any notices you receive from operators.

•       Consider independent testing, and keep the results.

•       Talk to a lawyer before signing any release or settlement offer from an operator.

Frequently Asked Questions About Property Contamination

What counts as property contamination?

Any release of a hazardous substance onto or near your land that harms your health, your property or your use of it, including oil, produced water, chemicals and waste.

Can I sue an oil company for contamination on my land?

Possibly. Depending on your agreements and the facts, claims may be based on negligence, nuisance, trespass or breach of contract. A lawyer needs to review your lease or surface agreement.

What is the deadline to file a claim?

Generally two years for most property damage and personal injury claims, but when the clock starts can depend on when the contamination was or should have been discovered. Do not wait.

How do I prove contamination?

Evidence typically includes soil, water and air testing, expert opinions, regulatory records, photos and medical records.

Does the Daspit Law Firm handle contamination cases for landowners and workers?

We handle claims for people harmed by contamination, including injuries and property damage. Call for a free review of your situation.