Shower head issues
Question from Connie updated on 14th October 2019:
Our tenants changed the showerhead in the bathroom. We found out that they changed it after the hose connected to the shower head burst. We suspect that their shower head was not designed for specific water flows and PSI of the hose as the old one which is why the hose burst. They did not have consent to change the showerhead. And now our property manager is saying that we as landlords are liable for the damage irrespective of the fact that the tenants made unconsented alterations. How can it be considered fair and reasonable wear and tear when the damage was done to the unconsented altered state?
Our expert Bernard Parker responded:
You have not said why the tenants changed the shower head (and hose). Had the previous one broken? Also, you say you suspect that they installed a wrong shower head and hose for the water flows. (Once again, you have no confirmation.) Perhaps they were trying to get it repaired and save you money at the same time! In any case, the issue of unauthorised alterations may not be as it seems. I think it is a good idea to ask the tenants why they changed the shower attachment.
Bernard is principal of Quinovic – Kapiti-Mana. Quinovic's outstanding people and systems provide the most professional, effective and reliable residential property management service in the NZ market for over 30 years.Search the Ask an Expert archive
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