A.F. from outside of Connecticut writes:
Dear Mister Condo,
My condo is a 9th floor penthouse. A small room above it had a water leak. This room is for the top of the elevator shaft access. The pipe burst sending water into my bedroom from the hallway outside my unit. The condo manager tells me to file a claim with my homeowner insurance company, as they won’t pay for the damage. My homeowner insurance company just sent me a check. I feel the building insurance should pay for this. The check does not even cover the damage.
Mister Condo replies:
A.F., homeowner’s insurance is used to cover damage inside your unit. That is why most association require that unit owners such as yourself carry adequate insurance. I am really sorry that the failed room above yours caused damage to your unit and your property but that is exactly what insurance is for. The dollar amount of your settlement should cover your losses with the exception of any deductible. Unfortunately, the untold cost of your lost time and shopping required to replace what was lost is not included. You can speak to an attorney if you wish but my guess is that your condo association is not liable for the damage or your extra out-of-pocket expense. You might wish to get a policy with a lower deductible if your out-of-pocket expenses are more than you care for but that will cost you more in your annual premium for the policy. I hope it all works out for you. All the best!