Guide

Apartment and Condo Water Events: Who Handles What

Updated 2026-09-01 ยท Fact-checked educational article

Quick answer

HOA master policies, unit owner policies, and coordination after a multi-unit leak.

Multiple policies may respond

In condos, a master association policy and a unit owner HO-6 policy may both be relevant. Leaks from one unit into another create liability and coverage questions.

Practical coordination tips

  • Notify management and your insurer the same day
  • Ask who authorizes demolition in shared walls
  • Keep a shared timeline of vendor entries
  • Clarify temporary housing benefits if rooms are unusable

Do not wait on blame before mitigating

Stopping active water and beginning drying protects everyone. Liability arguments can continue in parallel.