Assistance with water pipe bursts and tenancy law

Questioner

On November 13, 2019, a crack was discovered under the house. The water company was notified (and the meter reading was provided). Water company's position: Breakage under the house will be the property owner's responsibility. Our landlord has been informed of the breakage of the water pipe under the house. Both tell us we have to wait for the bill. The bill was received and forwarded to our landlord. They want to see our usage for the past three years, which they did. Now the landlord only wants to pay half the bill, arguing that "we have a duty to monitor our usage." And therefore, they only want to reimburse half. We think this is unfair. The meters are calibrated and haven't been tampered with. This represents an increase of 317m3.

Questioner

The plumbing that is apparently incorrectly adjusted, outdated, or broken is part of the rental property and constitutes a defect. For that reason alone, the landlord must reimburse your expenses. The landlord could then try to recover the costs from the manager, but that's not your problem. I can legally defend your case. In that case, please contact me.