Waste pipe leak into downstairs covered by buildings insurance?

JJAM

To cut a long story fairly short, I was made aware recently of a leak in the downstairs flat from my bathroom, that started whilst I was away. They had experienced some water damage marks for over a month (this was the first I heard of it) and my floor boards are pretty soaked (though have dried out, but look beyond saving ideally). The leak was coming from a pipe under the kitchen sink, and an emergency plumber replaced the pipe, but advised that the original pipe installation wasn't exactly great. He also mentioned that he wouldn't be surprised if the problem was deeper rooted. He was right. Using the shower also results in a leak, and now using the kitchen sink also leads it to occur (I saw water coming in from a ceiling light fitting, which is obviously very dangerous). I am useless with anything to do with DIY, but have been told that it's a waste pipe issue, meaning that the shower/bathroom will need to come out.

I've also been told that this should be covered by buildings insurance (not the pipe repair, but replacement of shower etc. even to a point). My management company, as I expected, are being very difficult about this. Is this a typical situation that would be covered? I've had no issues with leaks before and I'm pretty much freaking out about it, as well as not being able to use any water ;(

JJAM

Any advice would be much appreciated.

huckster

You need to check the flats Buildings policy to see what it covers internally. Some don't cover internal fittings/fixtures. They might cover damage to ceilings, floors and walls caused by escape of water. But they might not cover replacement of shower. If they don't cover anything you own within the flat, then check any Contents Insurance you might have.

In terms of downstairs damage, unless you have been negligent, they would have no claim against you and would have to claim under the relevant Insurance i.e flats Builidings cover, their own Contents.