Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Washington
Utility company damage liability
About 6 years ago, our utility company hired a subcontractor to install a natural gas line to our house, although we contracted with and made payment to our utility company only for the conversion. During that installation, our main electric line was damaged, which led to a recent serious electric problem in our house, and damage to some of our electronic equipment. The utility company is now claiming exemption from liability, since the damages to our belongings were caused by ''a third party beyond the Company's control.''
Is this a correct definition of the term ''third party''? Shouldn't the utility company be responsible for the damages done by someone they hired?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Utility company damage liability
The utility company likely was liable for this loss. Their insurance should have covered the damages. Once they reimbursed you for the loss they can go after the independent contractor for the amount they paid to you. However, the statute ot limitations for ordinary neglgience is three years and any claim you might have had is likely barred.
However, I recommend you write a letter requesting they notify their insurance company of the loss and include a concrete demand for the amount necessary to repair the loss.
I also recommend you contact a plaintiff's attorney in your locality who can look at the specific facts of this matter to determine liabilty and whether your cliams are barred by the statute of limitations.
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