Who is responsible for interior water damage after the install of a new roof?

Answer 1

If you are the unit owner -- if you are a tenant, notify the unit owner, your first obligation is to report the leak(s) to the association. Immediate repair is required, to prevent further damage, and then the issue of paying for the repairs can be addressed.

If the owner carries a HO-6 -- owners policy; if a tenant carries a renter's policy; and the association carries a master policy, then the insurance carriers can work toward deciding who pays for the repairs.

As well, the roof repair team -- if properly vetted -- carries insurance, and/or their work, by contract, should be warrantied and guaranteed for a period.

Answer 2

The following is general information. The best advice would come from your attorney who can review your situation and explain your options. The answer may depend on how much care was used to choose a competent and professional roofer and what documentation you have in writing.

When getting estimates for a new roof you should always ask up front about the warranty on the materials and the warranty on work and it should be in writing. The best estimates carry a statement that reads, All work guaranteed. You should obtain a copy of the roofers insurance policy.

If you have those important documents and the roof leaks you should be able to contact the roofer to have the roof repaired as well as any other interior damage. You need to give the original contractor the chance to correct the problem. If the roof continues to leak after the original roofer has been given the opportunity to correct the problem it can get complicated. You may need to get an estimate for the cost of the repairs from another company. You may need that in case the original contractor does not fix the problem and you need to sue.

It is important to not only shop by price for home repairs but also to shop around for a reliable contractor who guarantees the work in writing and has a good reputation locally.