Who Is Responsible for Water Damage in a Condo?

Your condominium's declaration of covenants, conditions, and restrictions, along with its bylaws, define what you own and what the association maintains. These documents often contain a "maintenance and repair" section that assigns responsibility for different parts of the building. This is the primary document for determining who pays for water damage repairs. Reviewing these rules is your essential first step after discovering any water issue.

The condo association is generally responsible for damage originating from common elements. This includes the main building structure, shared plumbing stacks, roofs, exterior walls, and hallways. A leaking roof or a burst pipe inside a wall that serves multiple units is usually the association's problem. They are responsible for repairing the source and any damage to the common areas themselves.

Your first action is always to stop the water source if it is safe to do so, such as turning off the main water valve for your unit. Immediately notify your condo association's management or board about the incident, regardless of the suspected source. Document all damage thoroughly with photos and videos before any cleanup begins. This evidence is crucial for insurance claims and determining fault. Then, contact local water damage pros to begin the drying process to prevent mold.

• Shut off the water supply to your unit if the leak is internal.
• Alert your condo association manager or board in writing.
• Take extensive photos and video of all water and damage.
• Move valuable items and furniture to a dry area if safe.
• Begin removing standing water with towels or a wet-dry vacuum.
• Contact a qualified water damage restoration professional for assessment.