J.R. from outside of Connecticut writes:
Dear Mister Condo,
Who is financially responsible for replacing broken sewer pipe in a unit that was converted from an apartment to a condo? The complex was built in the 1960s. The condo’s new owner discovered the broken drain line subsequent to purchase and closing. Thanks.
Mister Condo replies:
J.R., the short answer is “it depends”. What it depends upon is who owns the sewer pipe? If it is part and parcel of the common area owned by the association, then it is likely the association’s responsibility to maintain and repair as needed. If, however, the pipe is owned by the unit owner (which would be very rare), it may fall upon the unit owner to maintain and repair. The condo’s governance documents are the place to turn for your answer. Typically, in conversions, unit owners purchase from the “paint in”, meaning they are only responsible for what is inside of their unit. If a toile line breaks inside the unit, the unit owner is responsible. If the sewer pipe is beneath the unit or buried in a common wall shared with other unit owners, it is likely the responsibility of the association. Either way, I hope if gets fixed quickly. Regardless of who owns it, I’ll bet it stinks! All the best!