Sewer back-ups and plumbing leaks are a homeowner responsibility to repair to the extent they serve one unit. If the issue exists at a point that serves more than one unit, it becomes the association’s responsibility, most often with sewer back-ups that cause flooding in more than one unit. If a leak or back-up from one unit affects another unit, that is a matter between the homeowners to resolve. Depending on the extent of damage, both owners are encouraged to inquire with their insurance agents as to whether filing a claim is appropriate. Management can help facilitate getting neighbors in touch with each other but in most cases cannot become directly involved in making the repairs or arbitrating responsibility for damages.

Sometimes, especially when a leak or back-up is affecting more than one unit, it can be difficult to tell if the source is a single unit’s plumbing or if it is something common. In this case, management may call a plumber at the association’s expense, but if it is later determined one unit was the cause of the problem, the costs may be assessed back to that unit owner. To prevent this possibility, please investigate any leaks or back-ups as best you can before calling management. Check with your neighbors as well.