The Archdiocese of Mobile has been a steady presence in Mobile, with the Cathedral-Basilica of the Immaculate Conception standing tall since the mid-1800s. The Archdiocese owns several buildings downtown that are used for worship, community involvement, residences, and offices. These buildings serve not only as places of worship and community, but some are historical and community landmarks.
What could not be seen from the outside was the damage taking place within. Despite having a termite protection plan through Terminix, termites have caused serious structural harm across several Archdiocese‑owned properties, and that damage continued to worsen without proper intervention.
The hidden damage led to a legal dispute that was tried through arbitration process where an Arbitration panel awarded $25,878,087.84, including $8.6 million in punitive damages, against Terminix International Company, L.P.
Beasley Allen Law Firm, working with Campbell Law, represented the Archdiocese of Mobile throughout the proceedings. The arbitration involved multiple properties in downtown Mobile and was handled in several phases. After reviewing the evidence, the arbitration panel ruled in favor of the Archdiocese, holding Terminix responsible for the damage.
A Pattern of Failure, Not an Isolated Incident
The case focused on ongoing problems with termite inspections and treatment services. Evidence presented during arbitration showed that termite activity was allowed to continue and worsen across several properties over many years, even though service agreements were in place.
This was not a matter of one missed inspection or a simple mistake. Instead, the arbitration revealed repeated failures that led to serious structural damage. After reviewing the evidence, the arbitration panel determined that these failures were significant enough to support an award of both compensatory and punitive damages.
The punitive damages reflected the seriousness of the conduct and reinforced the importance of accountability in the pest control industry.
Experienced Trial Teams Working Together
The Archdiocese was represented by a Beasley Allen trial team that included Lance Gould, Tyner Helms, Jessi Haynes, and Lauren Miles, with Campbell Law, led by Tom Campbell, serving as colead counsel. Campbell Law is widely known for its experience in termite and pest control litigation, and the two firms worked closely together throughout the arbitration process.
Their collaboration reflects a shared focus on holding large companies accountable when their actions — or failures to act — cause harm to property owners, institutions, and the communities they serve.
What Property Owners Should Do If They Suspect Termite Damage
If you believe your business, church, or commercial property has suffered termite damage — especially while under an active pest control contract — taking the right steps early can make a critical difference:
- Preserve all contracts, inspection reports, and communications
- Obtain an independent termite inspection
- Avoid authorizing major repairs unless absolutely necessary
- Seek legal advice if damage occurred during an active service agreement
These steps can help protect your rights and preserve key evidence.
*The amount of some verdicts may have been reduced by post-trial settlement, appeal, or remittitur. Some amounts may have been obtained by default judgment. Some verdicts and settlements were obtained in other states besides Alabama. Beasley Allen does not represent that the same or similar results would be obtained in all cases
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Jessica HaynesPrincipalMobile, AL -
Lance GouldPrincipalMontgomery, AL -
Lauren MilesPrincipalMontgomery, AL -
Tyner HelmsPrincipalMontgomery, AL
