Is water leaking through your ceiling? If so, you may be facing water damage from the upstairs condo.
At ServiceMaster by Zaba, we've been restoring Chicago condos for over 15 years and have seen just about everything. In this blog, we outline exactly what to do if you're experiencing water damage from the unit above.
In need of expert water damage services? Contact ServiceMaster Restoration by Zaba now for immediate help: 773-647-1985
Key Takeaways
- To handle water damage from the upstairs condo, notify your neighbor, review the HOA master policy and bylaws, contact your insurance provider to file a claim, reach out to a water damage restoration team like ServiceMaster by Zaba, and document the damage with photos and videos.
- Determining liability can be tricky; consult your condominium's bylaws for guidance.
- Common causes of water leaks from upstairs units include faulty appliances, plumbing issues, and poor maintenance.
How to Handle Water Damage from Upstairs Neighbors
- Notify Your Neighbor
First, inform your upstairs neighbor of the leak. Even if they aren't directly responsible, it's important to communicate with them about what's happening since they might be unaware of the issue. If the neighbor can't resolve the problem, alert building maintenance immediately.
Tip: Remain calm and collected during the discussion. If they aren't responsive, you may need to contact your insurance provider.
- Review the HOA’s Master Policy and Bylaws
Contact your HOA for copies of their master insurance policy and bylaws. Forward one copy to your insurance agent so they can assess coverage and any potential HOA liability. Be aware that the HOA might not cover water damage within your unit beyond the interior walls of your condo.
- Call Your Insurance Company
Don't assume the upstairs condo owner or the HOA will reimburse you for water damage. Contact your insurance agent promptly to start the claims process and determine what your policy covers.
Tip: Act swiftly to avoid compromising your insurance claim, especially if mold or mildew starts to develop.
- Bring in a Water Damage Restoration Company
Severe water damage requires certified restoration technicians. If your ceilings, walls, floors, or belongings are significantly damaged and you're in the Chicago area, contact ServiceMaster by Zaba at (773) 647-1985 for help.We can assist with the insurance claims process and offer mold remediation if necessary.
- Document the Damage
Before cleaning up, thoroughly document the damage with photos and videos of affected walls, ceilings, floors, and belongings. This will be critical when filing your insurance claim.
Who's Liable for Water Damage in a Condo?
As a condo owner, you are responsible for maintaining your unit safely, regardless of who caused the damage. However, water damage cases can be complicated, and liability isn't always clear-cut.
Carefully review your condominium bylaws, particularly if the water damage is due to faulty building structures or if there's an HOA involved. Look for information regarding who should file the insurance claim. Under certain circumstances, your insurance company might be able to subrogate, meaning they could pursue the responsible party for damages.
Your HOA's Responsibility
The HOA has its insurance covering common elements, such as:
- Hallways and corridors
- Supply storage areas
- Garbage rooms and docks
- Parking lots and garages
- Building roofs and exterior walls
Limited common elements may include fireplaces, windows, decks, and balconies. However, the HOA's responsibility for water damage usually ends at the interior walls of individual units.
Get copies of the master insurance policy and the HOA bylaws. Review them with your insurance agent to identify gaps between HOA coverage and your homeowner's policy.
Common Causes of Water Leaks from Upstairs Condos
Water leaks from upstairs units can happen due to accidents or negligence. Here are the most common causes:
- Faulty washing machine or dishwasher hoses
- Leaks around bathtubs and showers
- Clogged toilets or backed-up sewer lines
- Leaky pipes behind walls or under sinks
- Poor plumbing maintenance
- Malfunctioning refrigerator lines
- Leaking water tanks
- Burst pipes in walls or shared building pipes
Your insurance provider will need to determine precisely what occurred to assess liability and process your claim.
When speaking to your insurance agent, provide contact information for your HOA, building maintenance manager, and upstairs neighbors.
Dealing with Condo Water Damage in Chicago or Suburbs? We Can Help!
Addressing residential water damage is never easy, especially when it involves liability issues. Keep communication open between on-site management, the HOA, and your upstairs neighbor, and stay in close contact with your insurance agent.
Professional water damage cleanup is essential for a quick recovery.
Count on ServiceMaster by Zaba in Chicago for everything from assessment to claims assistance. We service Millennium Park, Logan Square, Lincoln Park, and the entire North Shore.
Give us a call at (773) 647-1985 to request an inspection. We'll arrive at your property within 90 minutes and start the process of water damage restoration & recovery.
Disclaimer: The information presented in this article is intended solely for informational purposes and should not be construed as legal advice or a substitute for individualized professional counsel.
FAQs:
Can I sue my upstairs neighbor for water damage?
In some cases, yes, depending on the severity and specifics of the situation. Responsibility usually falls on the unit owner where the leak originated. If your condo is part of an HOA, though, the responsibility might shift to the HOA.
Do I need temporary housing if my condo is affected by water damage?
If the damage is extensive and requires significant repairs, consider relocating temporarily. Your insurance should help find and pay for temporary housing.
How long does condo water damage restoration take?
Water mitigation typically takes 3-4 days. Repairs can take longer, sometimes up to 3-6 months.
Does condo insurance cover all water damage?
Homeowner's insurance generally covers most water damage, like burst pipes or appliance leaks. However, natural flooding is often not covered and requires separate flood insurance through FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program.
