Seeking Repair Help and Condo Management Coverage for Water Leak Damage

[Asif Iqbal]

Hello all,

I'm dealing with a water leak situation in my condo unit, and I could really use your expertise and advice. The leak has caused damage to the ceiling of my neighbor's unit below, and I need to figure out the repairs.

Here's what's involved:

1. Repairing the Water Leak: The leak is coming from my bathroom, specifically around the toilet. It needs a new ring or seal to stop the water flow.
2. Pipeline Realignment: The leak has affected the pipeline that connects my bathroom floor to my neighbor's ceiling. It needs to be realigned or repaired.
3. Fixing the Downstairs Ceiling: The water damage has impacted my neighbor's ceiling. It needs repairs to bring it back to its former glory.

I'm also wondering if my condo's insurance might cover the expenses. The total repair cost is around $2000.

Any advice on how to approach my condo management for coverage and any suggestions on the repair process would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance for your help!

Asif

[Chris Seveney]

@Asif Iqbal

This seems like two separate issues

A leaking toilet because of a ring would not require piping to be redone

The toilet and damage costs are yours / your insurance

Piping would not be yours - it’s also not in your unit and most likely common area which is the association responsibility

Review condo docs and notify the association

[Asif Iqbal]

Thank you very much. I will review the condo doc

[Richard F.]

Aloha,

It is important that you notify your insurance company as well as the Condo Management. They need to notify their insurance, and, generally, the all involved insurance companies will coordinate based on the coverage's of each policy. The downstairs Owner will also need to file a claim with THEIR insurance company. Hopefully your policy will cover the deductible of the master policy. Provide copy of your Condo Docs to your insurance company, they will review and determine responsibility.

It is important to well document damages with photos, including your downstairs neighbor if they will let you. It is best to get photos before any clean up, as well as "progress" pics along the way.

[Asif Iqbal]

I'm still trying to resolve the situation with my condominium and could use some collective wisdom. To catch people up who skipped to this last post, I've been grappling with some maintenance and repair issues, and the division of responsibilities between the unit owner (myself) and the condo association seems to be a bit ambiguous in our bylaws.

From previous discussions, I've gathered that the responsibility for these repairs might not fall solely on my shoulders. Both Chris and Richard have kindly pointed out that the condo association might bear some of this burden, which is encouraging news. However, I'd love to hear more perspectives on this to ensure I'm fully understanding the situation.

In addition, I'm in the market for a local attorney who specializes in condominium law. If anyone could recommend a knowledgeable, reliable, and reasonably priced professional, I would greatly appreciate it.

On another note, I've been considering reaching out to my home insurance provider, Lemonade, to discuss this situation. However, their current policy requires an active issue and video evidence of the damage to proceed. I'm wondering if anyone has had a similar experience or if there might be a more direct route to take. I'm open to considering a change in insurance provider if it would facilitate a more immediate conversation.

Thank you all for your time and assistance in this matter. Your expertise and guidance are invaluable, and I'm grateful for any advice you can provide. Looking forward to hearing your thoughts.

Regards,

Asif

Best regards,
Asif

[Asif Iqbal]

Wow! all these research paid off. Association said they will take care of the pipes since it is in the common area. Just like what Chris and Richard said. Thank you, guys!!

[Asif Iqbal]

I find myself facing a responsibility battle now on this matter. The association plumber conducted an inspection and concluded that there is no leak in the pipe. However, they did discover that the wood frame beneath my toilet has become rotten, necessitating its replacement. Here's where the issue arises: the Association claims that since the water leak from my bathroom gradually deteriorated the wood frame, it falls upon me to cover the expenses of the repair, even though the wood frame is located beneath my toilet floor. I must admit, I was unaware that water could seep from my toilet floor to the area below. Nevertheless, I am open to accepting responsibility and covering the costs of the repair if it is indeed justified.

I kindly invite you to share your valuable thoughts, suggestions, and insights on this matter

Thanks