Plumbing Issues Condo Owners Can’t Control
The main sewer line in a building can become clogged with waste from other tenants, such as grease, disposable wipes, and hair
Community living in a condominium is quite different from a single-family home. While a condo tenant is responsible for problems within the unit, there are many issues they are not responsible for. This is especially true for plumbing issues. A tenant should be aware of the issues the HOA should handle since they are out of the resident's control.
Clogged Main Sewage Line
Does the condo have a toilet that constantly clogs or drains that move very slowly? The problem could be outside of the unit. The main sewer line in a building can become clogged with waste from other tenants, such as grease, disposable wipes, and hair. Tenants must know what they shouldn't put down the drain because it can impact all the other tenants in the building.
Ask other neighbors if they're having similar problems with their drains, which could help narrow down if it is within the unit or the whole building. Let the HOA know about the problem, and they'll hire a plumber to snake the pipes out and remove any clogs in the sewer lines.
Pipe Bursts
A condo unit probably has only a few pipes, mainly found under vanities. When the temperature drops below freezing, a pipe in the building might freeze. If it's from a neighbor living above, it can lead to water damaging a unit. The cost of this damage shouldn't be the tenant's responsibility. Instead, it should be covered by the neighbor's or the HOA's insurance policy. Additionally, ensure familiarity with the location of the emergency water shut-off for the entire building. When a pipe bursts, it becomes the only method to restrict further damage promptly.
Tree Roots
The responsibility for the drain tile leading to the central sewer system lies with the HOA. Issues often arise with tree roots infiltrating the tile, causing a block in the pipe. The HOA must hire a plumber with special tools to remove the tree roots, ensuring water flows freely from the drain.
Responsibility for fixing issues inside the unit lies with the resident. It's essential to have a reliable local plumber ready to call for help when necessary.
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