Leak From the Unit Above: A Condo Owner's First 24 Hours
You're watching water drip from your ceiling and it isn't your pipe. Here's an hour-by-hour plan for the first day.
Hour 0: stop the water
- Knock on the upstairs door. If nobody answers, call building management, security or the HOA's emergency line.
- If there's water near light fixtures or outlets, switch off those breakers.
- Put down buckets and towels and move valuables out of the way.
Hour 1: notify, in writing
- Email or message the HOA or building management with the time, your unit number and what you're seeing. Phone calls are fine, but a written record helps.
- Let the upstairs owner know in writing too, if you can.
Hours 1–3: document
- Photograph and video the ceiling, walls, floors and damaged belongings.
- If you're allowed, photograph the source upstairs.
- Write down names and contact info for everyone you talked to.
Hours 3–6: call your insurer
Many condo owners carry an HO-6 policy that covers the unit interior and personal property, while the HOA's master policy covers other parts of the building. Exactly where the line falls depends on your CC&Rs and the policies. Report the loss to your insurer and ask what they need.
Hours 6–24: start drying
Water left sitting raises the risk of mold and more damage. Ask management whether you can bring in a contractor for your unit. In high-rises, the contractor may need building approval, a certificate of insurance and an elevator reservation, so ask early.
Things to avoid
- Don't throw out damaged items before they're photographed and the insurer says it's okay.
- Don't poke holes in a bulging ceiling yourself if it's near electrical fixtures. Keep clear and let a professional handle it.
- Don't agree in writing about who's at fault before talking to your insurer.
General information only. Not legal, insurance or HOA advice. Your CC&Rs and policies control.