Plumbing Stoppage in Multi-family Property. Who Pays?

[Scott Schultz]

Hello there. I have an interesting question regarding a 4-plex we own that is on septic. We had it pumped yesterday and in addition to being full, the plumber had to auger the line due to back up. Of course it was grease and tampons causing the stoppage, which is strictly prohibited by our lease with all residents. The lease also requires the residents to pay the plumber if the stoppage is due to these items. There are only 2 women in the units, one in each of the lower apartments. Should I send half the bill to each or eat the cost. I had planned to send a warning letter to alert them that the next time they would be charged. I'm obviously not going to be able to isolate the issue to one apartment as it was in the central line inlet to the septic tank. Any ways to resolve this in a multifamily context like this would be appreciated! Thank you!