When the condo or apartment above springs a leak, the damage can trickle down causing water damage to properties below. Overflowing bathtubs, pipe breaks, or even AC leaks can cause issues. South Florida is home to many condominiums so unfortunately, this kind of damage is very common.
If you find yourself in this situation, it can be confusing what steps to take next! Insurance claims? Public adjusters? The professionals at Exodus have broken down the steps on how to handle water damage coming from a neighboring unit.
Identify The Source
As soon as you notice any water or water damage coming from above, you’ll want to act quickly to prevent any further damage. Contact the upstairs condo right away and make sure they are aware that there is a leak. If needed, turn off all the water until the leak or problem area can be fixed.
Unsure if it’s water damage? Sometimes the early signs of water damage can be easy to miss. Keep an eye out for these early signs:
- Peeling or bubbling paint or wallpaper
- Water rings or stains on the ceiling
- The flooring may be wet in the corners or close to the edge of the room
Prevent Further Water Damage
Prevention is the best cure in this situation. You’ll want to take action to try and protect your property from any further damage.
- Remove Standing Water
If a considerable amount of water has flooded your property, you’ll want to remove that as quickly as possible. A water remediation company can help if it is too big of a problem to do on your own.
- Shut Off Breakers
If necessary, you may need to shut off the breakers if you have electrical devices plugged into wet areas.
- Protect Furniture or Personal Property
If water is still coming in use tarps to cover items or move them to a dry area of the condo
- Pick Up Or Dry Wet Items
If area rugs or fabric have become wet, do your best to air them out and lift them off the carpet or floor. This can prevent mold from forming.
Go Over The Condo Laws & Insurance Policy
Condominium Associations often have policies regarding water damage from neighboring units. In Florida, there are even specific laws about neighboring units causing damage. Insurance company policies can vary on coverage and eligibility for a claim after these kinds of circumstances.
Between the condo association, your personal home insurance, and your neighbors home insurance, it can be a headache to navigate what to do next. Especially when you also have to do damage control at your condo.
Exodus Public Adjusters in West Palm Beach, Florida
The public adjusters at Exodus can help. You’ll want to go over the condo rules and regulations with a public adjuster. The public adjuster will help you understand your rights as a property owner and policyholder so you can file a claim. Public adjusters can assist in filing an insurance claim so you can get the money needed to recover your property.
At Exodus, we work on your behalf so the insurance companies can’t take advantage of you. We know how time-consuming it is to file an insurance claim especially right after a catastrophe takes place. We have years of experience and education when it comes to negotiating with insurance companies and navigating the claims process.