Update on Liability Claim with Neighbor
I experienced a pipe burst in my unit that unfortunately flooded my neighbor’s place. I submitted a liability claim through my insurance, but the adjuster is suggesting that it may be denied since I haven’t acted negligently—there was no irresponsibility on my part that led to the pipe breaking, and I don’t have a history of causing property damage. My neighbor is likely to file a claim with his own insurance, but I’m concerned about the water removal costs I’ve already covered. Could this be interpreted by his insurance as an admission of guilt?
EDIT: Quick follow-up—could his insurance deny his claim because I took care of the water removal costs? He has also incurred additional expenses for restoration, storage, and temporary housing while his home is under repair.
It sounds like you’re navigating a complicated situation. When it comes to liability claims, insurance companies typically look for negligence to determine responsibility. Since the adjuster has indicated that there was no negligence on your part, that bodes well for your position.
Regarding your question about the water removal costs you paid for, it’s unlikely that this will be construed as an admission of guilt. Many homeowners take immediate action to mitigate damage when an incident like this occurs. Your proactive steps may actually be seen as responsible behavior rather than an admission of liability.
As for your neighbor’s insurance possibly denying his claim because you already paid for water removal, that’s also unlikely. Insurance companies generally assess claims independently. Your neighbor’s policy should cover his expenses related to damage, even if you helped with initial costs. However, your neighbor’s insurance may investigate the overall situation to assess fault, but they should not deny his claim solely based on your actions.
It’s always a good idea to consult your insurance agent or a legal professional for personalized advice, especially since the situation may vary depending on state laws and the specifics of your insurance policies.