Plumbing
The system of pipes, fixtures, and fittings that distribute water and remove waste within a building. In condominiums, the declaration typically specifies that the association is responsible for main lines and shared plumbing infrastructure, while individual owners maintain the plumbing within their units from the point of connection. Plumbing failures in shared walls or floors can be a common source of disputes between owners and the association.
Example in Context
A pipe burst in the wall between units 301 and 302, and after reviewing the declaration, the board determined that main-line plumbing was an association responsibility while each owner was responsible for plumbing from the point of connection into their unit.
Common Misunderstanding
Many condo owners assume all plumbing problems are the association's responsibility, but typically only the main lines and shared infrastructure are — plumbing within your unit from the point of connection is usually your responsibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who pays for a plumbing leak in a condo wall?
It depends on the location and your declaration. If the leak is in a shared main line or within a common wall, the association is typically responsible. If the leak originates from plumbing within your unit (past the point of connection), you are responsible. The declaration should specify the exact boundary. When the source is disputed, the board should investigate before assigning responsibility.