Water Damage from Above: When Condos or Upstairs Neighbors Leak

Dealing with any kind of leak or water damage situation is stressful enough. But there’s a whole new layer of complication if condo water damage is coming from your ceiling or roof. If an upstairs neighbor has a leak, what steps can you take? Do you really have to pay for it yourself? 

At 1-800 WATER DAMAGE, we deliver swift and impactful water damage restoration for homes, businesses, and residential buildings, including condos. No matter the situation, we know it can be overwhelming to deal with these issues. Today, we’ll review some of the immediate steps you can take if water damage is coming from a neighbor or from the roof. 

What to Know About Condo Water Damage 

Inform Your Neighbor and Property Manager

In many cases, your neighbor may not realize that there’s a leak in their condo. Often, burst pipes or other plumbing leaks occur below the surface—so even if they suspect something’s amiss, they may not be sure until you tell them. Letting them know allows them to take steps to address the issue on their end, and also makes it easier to locate the source of the leak. 

You’ll also want to inform your building’s property manager. That’s true if the leak is coming from the roof, but it’s also important if the water source is from your upstairs neighbor. A superintendent or property manager will often be able to help resolve the problem. 

Check Your Condo Bylaws 

It’s understandable to assume that your condo’s HOA or your neighbor will cover any costs of water damage or repairs. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Before you go any further, it’s a good time to review your condo bylaws to see who’s responsible for what. 

In some cases, for water damage that stems from the building’s roof, the HOA may need to assist with repairs and associated costs. In other cases, your neighbor’s insurance may cover the cost of damage if their actions were the cause of the leak. 

Whatever the case, you’ll also want to report the issue to your HOA, so that they’re aware of the situation. This also creates clear documentation of the issue. 

Document Your Condo’s Water Damage

It’s always important to keep records of the damage to your condo. If water damage from the roof has seeped into your unit (or if any other issue has caused water damage), you’ll want to take lots of pictures of affected areas. Video is also helpful here. Keep track of any communications between you, your neighbor, your HOA, and your property manager. All of these details will be important for resolving the issue promptly and effectively. 

Contact Your Insurance Company 

You’ll also want to have your insurance company involved as soon as possible. The more they know, the better-equipped they are to support you as you deal with water damage issues. You’ll also want to review your insurance policies carefully to see what’s covered, if there are deductibles, and if there are any limits to coverage. 

Your insurance company may be able to help you take the next steps as well. They can recommend a water damage restoration company, and sometimes they’re able to help you with alternate accommodations if those are needed. The sooner they’re involved, the more likely it is that they can support you in these early days. 

Get 24/7 Emergency Water Damage Services 

Whether your condo is dealing with water damage from the roof or from a neighbor’s unit, you’ll also need to get water damage restoration services as soon as possible. That’s because water damage can quickly morph into bigger problems, like surface deterioration, mold, pests, substructural problems, and more. A water damage restoration company like 1-800 WATER DAMAGE can quickly dry up moisture, remove standing water, and help you get your condo back to normal again. 

Don’t delay in dealing with condo water damage from the roof or from above. To file a claim with 1-800 WATER DAMAGE, contact us today.