Flood in Unregistered Building

COLUMBUS, OH

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ADRIANO

NewBee

Flood in Unregistered Building

We live in a unit that is a few months old and our heat pump exploded—we had 2 inches of water in our unit. All the floors are currently being ripped out and replaced while some personal belongings were damaged.

The building is NOT registered and the builder has confirmed it was a trades error (incorrectly installed heat pump). Is the builder liable for the damages (hotel costs, food costs, hydro (to dry the unit))?

I was told it's their responsibility since the building is not registered so I thought I’d get legal advice as they are saying they “may” cover any costs we incur. We don't feel we should go through insurance since this was a trade's error and not an accident. We are renters (if that matters).

General Chit-Chat

RANDY SMITH

NewBee

I am not an expert on this but I don't think they are. For example lets say a unit above yours had a flood and you had zero insurance for yourself the unit above you wouldn't be responsible for you having to move or live elsewhere if the damage was that bad. Being that you have insurance you should be talking with them first to hear there thoughts. Also don't assume anything the builder tells you is what you should believe. Make sure you have any of their verbal agreements on costs provided in writing. Even if its just a simple email from them. It sounds like a pretty serious flood of which the builder and insurance company should cover the costs.

MATT RICHLING

Buzzer

Great example of why everyone should have insurance! Talk with your insurance company on a "what if" basis, and see what they say. See who would be responsible and if it would increase future rates.

ARCHIE MAGGI

NewBee

Thank you for this post

FREDERICKMORSE

NewBee

why don't you take professional advice. There are different types of plumbers that are found in the plumbing trade including service and repair, commercial and residential plumbers. Residential plumbers, mainly install plumbing systems in new constructions and also provide additions for residential houses. Service and repair plumbers focus on resolving any plumbing problem that arises in the home. They have to identify the cause of the problem and then find a way to resolve the problem in the most effective way.