Oil and gas companies are notorious for moving into an area and promising landowners an opportunity to make "easy money" by allowing the company to develop the land and extract the underlying oil, gas or minerals. Unfortunately, these subsurface minerals cannot be accessed without disturbing the surface of the land and the result of drilling and mining operations is often contamination and destruction of the land surface.

Too often landowners are left with property that has been contaminated by releases of toxic chemicals, improperly maintained or restored production and salt pits, wellheads and casings and improper plugging and issues with storage tanks and runoff. Frequently a drilling contractor will abandon a lease without removing chemical and solid waste, pipe, equipment and debris on the property. The result is land that is contaminated by oil, grease, salt water, and other hazardous and carcinogenic chemicals.

Such negligent acts constitute an unreasonable interference with the surface landowner's lawful use and enjoyment of their property and generally constitute a private nuisance giving rise to a cause of action for damages suffered by the landowner.

If your land has been damaged or contaminated due to the failure of a drilling contractor to restore the surface of the property to its original condition, you should consult with an attorney experienced in handling land contamination cases to determine your rights in this regard. Don't allow the oil companies and their contractors to rob you of the enjoyment and use of your property while destroying the value of your land.

Sechelski Sammons, PLLC offers a superior level of dedication and representation for the clients we represent. Lisa Sechelski and Laura Sammons combine their experience in a firm that protects the rights of individuals against large corporations and government entities. Sechelski Sammons, PLLC has the experience to take on petrochemical companies in land contamination cases and hold them responsible for their negligent acts and destruction of your property.

If your land has been damaged by the negligent acts of an oil or gas exploration company or its contractors, we can help you claim compensation to restore your land so you can once again enjoy your property.