Heater Inspection Missed the Problem, with Subsequent Damage

[condoowner111]

I am a condo owner and I rent out the unit...
Two weeks ago my tenants reported that the heater was not working, in turn I reported the problem to the condo management company. On 11/21, they sent one of thier maintenence professionals to inspect the heater. He reported that he could not find a problem with it. Based on his report, I don't think he even lifted the cover off of it to inspect the pipes and valves. 6 days later, my tenants came home to find that a valve in the heater was leaking water all over the place. There will be costs for repair, servicemaster water extraction, and new carpet...What are my rights, and is the condo management company financially responsible for any or all of the expenses I listed?
Any advice is good advice, thanks.

[peppermintpatty]

This condo is located in what state?

[condoowner111]

Minneapolis, Minnesota

[aaron]

It may have been negligence on the part of the "maintenance professional"; you would have to discuss that with whomever did the final repair - identifying the cause of the failure and how it might have been detected during the prior maintenance. Beyond that, your remedy may be limited by your contract with the management company, so take a look at your contract.

[peppermintpatty]

I agree that you have to check your condo docs to ascertain the management company's liability. However, wherever the responsibility lies, you depended upon your management company and your management company appears to have let you down. I would certainly send them a certified letter stating that it was upon the advice of their "professional" that you acted in the way you did and that because of this ill-advice you incurred extensive financial damage. I don't know the rules in Minnesota, but in the state of Florida management is obligated to answer your letter if sent certified. I would inform them that you are holding them financially responsible for your loss based upon the advice given.