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Updated almost 4 years ago,

User Stats

53
Posts
17
Votes
Ying B.
  • Rental Property Investor
  • Atlanta, GA
17
Votes |
53
Posts

Steps to Address Water Damage From Tenant Washer Hose Connection

Ying B.
  • Rental Property Investor
  • Atlanta, GA
Posted

Six days ago, Tenant's washer hose on 2nd floor became loosely connected, which resulted in water damage to kitchen ceilings downstairs. Plumber went to check right away upon Owner being notified of the work order by PM. Plumber advised the hose was secured by tenant the time he arrived and it was 100% safe to use the washer again. Tenant did use washer a few times on subsequent days and observed no issues at all. However, on the day it happened, dripping from the ceiling below was noted. On the 6th day since incident, a restoration company (Owner - myself present) assessed the water damage and advised  moisture still present in ceiling cavity and it cannot dry by itself. Need to open up 2' by 2' on ceiling and dry out with special equipment. Need to remove laundry room vinyl sheet flooring to dry.  5+ stained areas noted in kitchen ceiling. This restoration company does not provide written estimate but advised verbally they would charge $1300 for opening, discarding damaged materials, drying, treatment.  Have not sent contractor for estimate on ceiling drywall repair, paint and replace vinyl sheet floor, baseboard in laundry room (<50 SF).  I expect based on the current scope the total cost possibly $2500-$2800.  Additionally I plan to get a drain pane installed and braided stainless steel hose for washer as opposed to the current rubber hose and get water alarm. 

PM does conclude the cause of the leak was due to the water line coming out of the washer and tenants be responsible for cost to repair but Owner pay to get the repairs completed then be reimbursed by tenants.  At the time of incident my insurance deductible was 1% of rebuild at $3459, less than expected total cost to repair.  I am asking PM to check on tenant's renter insurance to see if there is anyway for their insurance to pay as it is a significant expense paying out of pocket whether tenant pays or owner pays.  

Property is in McDonough GA.  I know the urgent priority is to 100% dry out the trapped moisture. Most restoration companies I talk to can start working right away.  Some company only do cleanup/remediation and not the repair work.  My questions are:

1) I would like to control the cost but not cutting corners.  Do I have any alternatives or company recommendations to do a equally good job for opening cavity, dry out w/ professional equipment, discard/treat affected areas other than using a restoration company and therefore keep this cost in check? 

2) Should I get 2 written quotes or 3?  

3) Is this better to get a company that does both water damage restoration and repairs or use 2 companies: one to address the water damage cleanup; the other address drywall, paint, floor, etc.   Any good company recommendations?

Thank you for your input!