Jeffries, et. al. v.
West Virginia-American Water Company

Civil Action No. 17-C-765

A class action settlement has been reached regarding a 2015 water main break in Dunbar, West Virginia. The case, Jeffries v. West Virginia American Water Company, was filed in 2017 and received preliminary approval from the Kanawha Circuit on May 5, 2025.

The settlement addresses a June 2015 water service interruption that affected approximately 120,000 residents and businesses in Kanawha and Putnam counties. The interruption began on June 23 when a 36-inch water main in Dunbar developed a leak. Initial repair attempts were unsuccessful, and regular service wasn’t restored until June 27. Additional problems occurred on June 29, with service not fully restored until July 1.

Under the settlement, West Virginia American Water Company will pay up to $18 million without admitting liability. Class members may file one claim per household or business, choosing between a simple claim and a claim with evidence. Simple claims will provide up to $175 per household or $525 per business. Claims with evidence showing the impact of the event can receive up to $225 per household, while those with receipts for additional expenses or lost profits may receive up to $500 per household or $1,525 per business.

The deadline for class members to opt out or object to the settlement was July 23, 2025, and the deadline to file claims was August 22, 2025. The final fairness hearing was held September 11, 2025 at 9 am.5.

Filing
May 05, 2025