A.W. from Rapides County, Louisiana writes:
Dear Mister Condo,
Who is responsible for damage from a faulty fire suppression system in a condo building?
Mister Condo replies:
A.W., the answer depends on a few factors. For starters, where did the damage occur? Association owned property (building exteriors, roofs, and such) are likely insured under the association’s insurance policy. Unit interiors, on the other hand, are typically the responsibility for the homeowner and should be covered under the individual homeowners’ insurance policy. Of course, even when required, not every homeowner has the right insurance and it is possible that lawsuits will result if insurance claims are denied. I am truly sorry that a faulty fire suppression system caused any damage to your condo but it is likely the insurance companies that will battle it out to determine liability, if any. It could be the installation company for the faulty system that is ultimately to blame. They, too, will likely have insurance to cover their own liability. Good luck!