In a condo, a leak rarely affects only one unit, and figuring out who pays can be as stressful as the leak itself. Responsibility depends on where the leak starts and what your association's governing documents say.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Your condo declaration, bylaws, insurance policies and applicable law control. When in doubt, consult your association manager, insurance agent or an attorney.
General rules of thumb
- Inside your unit: Fixtures, appliances, water heaters and the supply lines serving only your unit are often the owner's responsibility.
- Common elements: Main risers, shared drain stacks and building-wide systems are often the association's responsibility.
- Gray areas: Pipes inside walls between units, branch lines and shut-off valves can go either way depending on the documents.
What to do when you find a leak
- Stop the water if you can by closing your unit's shut-off or the fixture valve.
- Notify management and your neighbors, especially the unit below.
- Document everything with photos and video before cleanup.
- Call a plumber to find the source. A leak detection report is valuable evidence when responsibility is disputed.
- Contact your insurer promptly.
Prevention tips for condo owners
- Replace water heaters on the schedule your association requires.
- Use braided stainless supply lines on toilets, sinks and the washer.
- Install a drain pan and consider a leak sensor or automatic shut-off valve.
- Know where your unit's shut-off is.
Need help?
Our leak detection & repair team serves Davie and all of Broward County. Call (954) 870-5492.