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Will I be liable for water bill should I leave the water on, turn it off?
Anonymous2 views3 answers
I rent an apartment that has had a water leak for several months, The landlord refuses to fix the underground leak even after the city has told him twice there is a leak. The city informed me twice I need to have the water shut off (landlord will be liable) that I am 'sitting on a ticking time bomb' as should the line blow out (cold weather could expand pipes), I could be looking at a water bill as high as $2K. I am obviously looking for a new place, however need to ensure I am clear of any responsibilities!
Lease: "Tenant shall be responsible for arranging for & paying all utilities required on the premises.
There are a couple of competing issues here.
You are liable for the water bill. However, your landlord is also responsible for making sure that your apartment is habitable and for maintaining the premises. So if they fail to fix the pipe and it bursts you will probably have to pay that bill. However, you could sue your landlord to collect any losses from their negligence. So, if your property is damaged or you owe on the bill, they will be liable for the damages after the fact.
Talk with an attorney, you may have some options to put pressure on them to fix the pipe before it bursts.
Howard Clifford HoytDUI / DWI AttorneyLees Summit, MO ·
Put this all in writing and mail it to the landlord. Keep a paper copy for your records. Move as soon as you can and make sure the utilities are out of your name.
Justin & Howard gave you great advice. I agree with both of them. Be careful and contact an attorney before this situation goes sideways and you a lot of money!
