Residents Trapped After Leaky Pipes Cause Sheetrock Collapse

According to a KSAT News report, a broken sprinkler system led to a sheetrock collapse that trapped two people and a dog in a Northwest Bexar County apartment complex.

Leon Springs FD said that a broken sprinkler system was pouring a constant stream of water between the building’s walls, causing the collapse. The Helotes Fire Department was the first to arrive and was able to cut the residents of the apartment complex in the 8900 block of Napa Landing out with power tools. No one was injured, but 82 units were evacuated between two buildings due to the electrical hazard the leak caused. The Leon Springs fire chief reported this is the 3rd year in a row the complex has had this issue.

Did You Know?

Leaking pipes can cause electrical and structural damage and can cause mold growth in your apartment unit.

Leaky Pipe in San Antonio Apartment: Causes, Risks, and Liability

If you’ve rented in San Antonio for any significant length of time, you’ve probably dealt with a leaky pipe. Water damage from leaky pipes is a prevalent issue for renters across the country and can have serious consequences.

What Causes Leaky Pipes?

There are many reasons why a pipe may be leaking in your San Antonio apartment complex, weather being the most widespread culprit. This will often result in:

• Leaks in the heating system,
• General plumbing issues,
• Leaking air conditioning,
• Burst pipes from freezing temperatures.

If you notice a drip from your ceiling or discoloration after a storm, inform your landlord as soon as possible to avoid extreme damage.

Signs of a Leaky Pipe

Signs that your building has a plumbing issue may be subtle at first, but the sooner you catch it, the less likely it will be to result in serious damage.

1. Dark Rings/Discoloration — You’re most likely to notice dark stains on your ceiling or wall. These can be dry to the touch but are indicators of a leak.
2. Peeling Paint — If not caught soon enough, water accumulation will begin to peel the paint away from the wall or ceiling.
3. Sagging — If large amounts of water from a serious leak are left unchecked, the area of the ceiling or wall will bubble and sag.

If repairs are not made as soon as possible, it can result in extreme property damage.

Risks of a Leak Pipe

Leaky pipes cause more than an ugly stain. Left unchecked, a leak can cause:

• Electrical damage,
• Fires,
• Insulation damage,
• Mold/Mildew,
• Structural damage,
• Increased utility bills.

Who Pays for the Leak Pipe Repairs/Property Damage?

Whoever pays for the damage and repairs will come down to whose fault it is. If the damage was your neighbor’s fault, your landlord will work out an agreement with your neighbor. If it’s the landlord’s fault, they will be responsible for the damages.

Landlords are required to ensure their units are in livable condition. If your landlord is disputing your claim, a seasoned attorney can help.

Injured by a Leaky Pipe Accident in San Antonio? Call Carabin Shaw.

If your landlord refuses to compensate you after you’re injured by their lack of proper maintenance, you need expert legal advice on how to proceed.

Carabin Shaw has handled personal injury claims on apartment complexes in San Antonio for 30 years. Call us at 800-862-1260 or use the live chat for free, immediate help with your claim. We look forward to serving you.

Contacting a Carabin Shaw attorney is free and does not obligate you to work with the firm.

¹KSAT Report