Water damage in your home is not only a nuisance; it can cause significant financial hardship and emotional distress. When you are a member of a condo or homeowners’ association, navigating the nuances of your association’s insurance coverage can add to your troubles.
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but there are several steps you can take to ensure that the situation is properly resolved. Acting promptly can also help you recover any financial losses sustained by the damage.
1. IF POSSIBLE, IDENTIFY THE SOURCE OF THE DAMAGE
Flooding, broken or corroded pipes, construction-related defects, appliance malfunctions and excessive humidity can cause water damage. What appears to be a small leak may be the first sign of a much greater problem. Even if the damage seems minimal, it’s critical to take action as soon as you notice it.
Once a leak or pipe burst has begun, your belongings may be exposed to irreparable damage and you could be at risk for environmental hazards like mold.
When you find out which issue caused the water damage on your property, make sure to take photos so that the progression of the damage can be monitored. If you have any photos of the property prior to the water damage, keep those as well.
If you are not able to locate the source of the leak, contact a professional to investigate the situation. It is important to take action as soon as the leak is discovered to preserve your rights to insurance coverage and other remedies.
If litigation becomes necessary, having sufficient documentation could significantly improve the likelihood of recovering your losses.
2. NOTIFY YOUR HOMEOWNERS’ OR CONDO ASSOCIATION
As soon as you identify the source of the water damage, contact the party responsible for building, maintaining or renovating your property.
Homeowners’ associations and condo associations generally offer insurance covering water damage in common areas, or damage caused by ruptured pipes and pre-existing plumbing issues.
It’s best to keep a written record of any correspondence with your association. That way, if they fail to give you access to the coverage your insurance guarantees, it will be easier for you to file a claim.
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