Families of Surfside building collapse victims to receive US$150 million in compensation, judge rules

Victims’ families and those who suffered losses in the collapse of a 12-storey oceanfront Florida condominium will collectively receive a minimum of US$150 million in compensation initially, a judge said on Wednesday.

That sum includes insurance on the Champlain Towers South building and the expected proceeds from the sale of the Surfside property where the structure once stood, Miami-Dade Circuit Judge Michael Hanzman said at a hearing.

“The court’s concern has always been the victims here,” the judge said, adding that the group includes visitors and renters, not just owners. “Their rights will be protected.”

The US$150 million does not count any proceeds from the numerous lawsuits already filed since the June 24 collapse, which killed at least 97 people. Those lawsuits are being consolidated into a single class action that would cover all victims and family members if they choose, the judge said.

“I have no doubt, no stone will be left unturned,” Hanzman said of the lawsuits.