Condo Lower Water Leak From Above?
May 14, 2010 by
Filed under condo water damage
I live in a lower level condo unit. The unit above has a water leak from either the toilet or shower. The water has caused damage to my ceiling not to mention the water leak itself. The people that live above me know about the leak and damage, but have done nothing, mostly I guess because I have not made a big issue about it. But, I need to live and deal with the problem.
I had a plumber come out this morning to give me an estimate on this and other repairs I need. He tells me he cannot even give me an estimate on the leak issue because he has to do some testing in both units to see what is causing the leak.
What would others do in my situation? My condo association will not deal with this issue because it is an interior issue, not a common grounds issue.
Thanks,
Kevin
You should talk to the owner of the top unit ASAP.
They are responsible for any damage to your unit due to water damage.
If they refuse, get the association involved, to mediate or force the repairs on the owners.
This is very unfortunate for you. I’m sure you must be feeling the affects of the mildue by now, or you will soon. You do have recourse, the health issues that come with water damage are many, which include “sick building syndrome”. First go to the person above and talk with them, tell them that the problem you mentioned before has gotten worse and that something needs to be done asap. Tell him you’ve contracted someone but that you need access to the problem site on his end. If he says no, then up the ante and say that your experiencing health issues that could be responsible, cough for good measure…lol. Keep a log of conversations and when and where. If that fails send a nasty letter to the association telling them of what has transpired and how you expect them to be a mediary of sorts in this because of the mutual effect on the value of the building if it declines. If that does not work take them to small claims. I’m assuming that you already had to pay for the worker to come out originaly so you already have damages. I’m sure its really stressing you out too, that would be a good thing to mention. Make sure you keep all paperwork togethe. Good luck.
Advise the person above that they will be held responsible for damages to your unit. If this leak continues the ceiling will eventually rot out, not to mention the very likely possibility of mold growing. The problem upstairs is probably something simple but needs immediate attention. Good luck.