AboutJay K. Williams, AAI, AIP, CIC, CRM Expertise I can answer questions relating to the following coverages: personal auto; homeowners; commercial auto; commercial liability; commercial property; business income and all other property and casualty coverages.
Experience I have been in the insurance industry in Florida since 1979. I am currently the president of a Florida domestic insurance company subsidiary. I've taught continuing education classes in Florida and across the country. I am quite familiar with all coverages including Florida Condominium master policies and unit owner policies. I also specialize in agent professional liability. I have been a professional educator since 2001.
Organizations I am a member of the Florida Associaion of Insurance Agents, the state affiliate of the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America.
Education/Credentials I currently carry the following professional designations:
Accredited Advisor in Insurance (AAI)
Associate in Insurance Production (AIP)
Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC)
Certified Risk Manager (CRM)
Question My condo is located on a second floor. It is currently vacant. Over the weekend the water supply line to the bathroom faucet broke. As a result water poured out into the downstairs unit.
My question is this. Neither of us has insurance. What is my liability here? From what I'm reading they are responsible for the damage that has happened to there unit. Since no insurance coverage is available can they still sue me personally for the repair costs?
Answer JP,
Typically, in this situation, if it is a sudden and accidental leak you probably would not be held labile. Of course, I'm not an attorney, but from an insurance perspective, unless you knew there was a problem and neglected to repair it, negligence is usually not an issue.
Another factor here is the Condo situation. Usually each unit owner is responsible for their own damage...however, the association may also have some responsibility based on what State you are located and how the Condo Statutes apply.
The best unit to own when living in a condo is the top one! Everything else flows down from there.