Water Damage from neighboring townhouse

[sle96]

What is the name of your state? Virginia

I noticed my carpet was wet beside the wall shared between my townhouse and the townhouse next door. Upon further inspection the drywall, padding etc beside this shared wall are all sitting in water. There is no one currently living in the townhouse next door. I contacted the realtor who is selling the house who in turn contacted the owner. The owner insists that the problem is not on their side and suggested I call a plumber. The plumber has since inspected my home and the water is not coming from my property. I have been unable to speak with the owner again despite repeated attempts and the water continues to seep under the shared wall damaging more carpet and drywall. Two questions: 1) What can I do legally to fix the immediate leak from their property if they continue to ignore me and the problem? 2) Is it possible to make them pay for any damages to my property after the time they were notified of the problem?

Thanks!

 

[BL]

It could be coming from a leaking pipe in the walls somewhere . You should get a second opinion , then if it's not your fault consult a real estate Attorney and have them send the owner a letter .

Sue for damages .

I don't know anything you can do immediately as it's not an emergency . The owner or Realtor could cut the main valve off in the other unit and see if it stops . It's not that hard to do .

Maybe they could come and let your plumber in to do it while he's at your place . Try setting up a time .

Just out of curiosity is this a basment floor , or higher level ?

 

[sle96]

It's the first floor. I have a concrete slab foundation so i guess the water is just seeping to the lowest point of the concrete since the foundations are connected.

Thanks for the advice. I'll continue to try and discuss options with the owner.