Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Maryland
Going Broke after Sewer Easement
Construction of a new sewer pipeline (over the existing water line) has interfered and caused damage to the existing water lines on our rental property. To date there have been 2 seperate water line ruptures within a 1 yr period (with more likely to follow). We have repaired them both times and then provided video documentation of the damage & repairs to the county for their info. The 1st incident the water dept. proposed to modify our bill from $6000+ to $1250. (note: the water bills are generally $1200-1400 qtrly) The latest leak resulted in a $7500 bill of which we've pd $2000 & are now being strong armed to pay addt'l $$ or the water will be cut off. Needless to say that would lead to further problems which we want to avoid. The water dept. has notified us that "they will not accept any future claims for damages that may have been caused by the initial construction". Do we have any legal recourse for damages either to the property and/or our pocket book following the easement agmt? In the 14 yrs we've owned the property there were never any water leaks until new lines were installed. By the way the amount we rec'd from easement was $1730 however we had to pay $8500 to hook-up to new water system!
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Going Broke after Sewer Easement
It sounds like whoever was responsible for installing the new sewer line did the work improperly. They should be required to redo the work to correct whatever it is that is causing the water line ruptures. This may well require a court action if the contractor refuses to do this voluntarily. The water company would also be responsible since they presumably contracted to have this project done.
Have your neighbors had similar problems? If so, perhaps you can coalesce to share legal costs is an expensive court action becomes your only means of recourse to solve your problem.
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