Q: I had a sudden burst of pipe of the flexi-hose under my bathroom vanity and my whole unit got flooded and water started gushing out in the lobby, lift and unit below my apartment. My wife who was present at the time had to seek a neighbour’s help to shut down the main water supply. Security was also called for help but the nozzle was too tight and tools were needed to stop the water supply so the water kept on flowing. I want to know: who will be responsible for damages caused to common property and the unit beneath my apartment? Strata management is holding me responsible for all the damages incurred.
Who will be responsible for water damages caused to common property and the unit beneath my apartment? – Monil, NSW
A: It is recommended that you determine the exact cause and location of the burst pipe. If the issue arose from common property, it will be the strata committee’s responsibility to pay for repairs and maintenance. If the burst pipe occurred on an area considered lot owner property, the lot owner (in this case yourself) will be responsible for repairs and maintenance costs.
Common property damage can possibly be covered by strata insurance, which will save you from having to pay out of pocket, although it is best to check the details with your strata committee secretary or strata manager.
