My Neighbors Pipe Leaked Into My Condo, Should I File a Claim?
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<<First Name>>,
When you live in close proximity to your neighbors, something is bound to happen to your unit or your neighbors. You may have a leaky pipe, or your neighbors' kitchen catches on fire. Either way, you are connected through a common wall with a common interest. The home owners association (HOA) is the managing body to help you handle and resolve your issues. Depending on what the HOA master insurance policy covers, you may have to file a claim with your own insurance to repair or replace what was damaged.
This situation happened recently to a client of mine. The HOA told my client they would handle everything. Unfortunately, 30 days later, they have no floor and are still waiting.
I am not a believer in filing a claim when it is not necessarily warranted. In this situation, it was very much needed. It is not fair (appropriate) for anyone to live without a floor or in a torn up home for any length of time. Insurance is there to make you whole again. Along with filing a claim, my client will have to pay their deductible. However, the insurance company will subrogate (pay the claim and then go after the responsible party once completed) to recoup the money it cost to repair/replace the damage. The insurance company will also recover the deductible for the home owner. Once all is settled, the claim should not count against the home owner and the insurance company should be returning your deductible.
Being in a situation like this is not easy. You are trying to be a good neighbor or listen to the HOA (whom you know is responsible). My concern and the insurance company's concern is getting your life back to normal. I am certain, that by filing this claim, my client will have their life back sooner, rather than waiting for the HOA to resolve this problem. If you ever find yourself in a similar situation, call me immediately for advice so I can help you.
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My wife, Elizabeth, is a Mom, an amazing wife and an incredible chef. She trained at the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco. She shares a helpful tip below.
"My husband Aaron makes excellent homemade ice cream. With the summer here, it is always nice to have a tasty frozen treat at home. Below is one of his favorite recipes.
Ingredients:
Ice Cream Maker (we have a Cuisinart)
2 cups heavy whipping cream
2 cups half-and-half cream
3/4 cup white sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
4 peanut butter cups
In a large bowl, combine the heavy cream and the half and half. Gradually whisk in the sugar until dissolved.
Whisk in the vanilla. Refrigerate, covered, until very cold, at least 2 hours.
Chop peanut butter cups into small cubes.
Remove from refrigerator, whisk the mixture again and pour into the frozen ice cream maker container. As the mixture is freezing, add peanut butter cups. Eat at once or transfer to a covered container and freeze. Enjoy!" |
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