Question
What is the name of your state? Minnesota
Our vacation home was damaged by city workers when they worked on water lines. Sand got forced into the lines and they are plugged, plus our hot water heater nowdoesn't work. A plumber's (of their choice) estimate included to replace water lines, fixtures, etc, because of sand in the lines and the belief that there may be chunks of debris in the lines that would not wash out . was rejected. The adjustor is proposing a quick repair, not replacement, through a 2nd plumber.. The 2nd plumber that did not even visit the home or understand the extent of damages, but acted on the adjustor's opinion of damages. We do not believe the problem would be fixed with the 2nd plumber's work.What can we do now? We'd like quality repair work done. Also, it has been almost a month since the damages occured and although this is not our primary residence, we have been unable to use this home for a month. Any help appreciated. Thanks
Answer
You can present other estimates to the insurance adjuster. If that doesn't work out, you can READ your insurance policy for the next step when you don't agree with the insurance company's representative.
Answer
What can we do now?
This would normally be a fairly easy process... except your damage was caused by a government entity (city employees). You will have to get the services of a local attorney to help you pursue your claim and to get around their 'municipal immunity'.
The appropriate Minnesota Statute (chapter 466) showing immunity for city employee conduct can be found online at:
Answer
Did the water dept. restore water up to the meter and make sure that the water meter was working (not stuck with debris)? Water main breaks are quite common, and usually it is just a matter of taking the aerators off of the faucets and flushing the water until clear. If small stones or gravel got in the line it may just be significantly blocked at one point (like at a main shut off valve).
I have never experienced problems in such cases with my gas hot water heater, but operating an electric water heater while drained can burn out its element(s). But those are easily replaced (someone I know with a mobile home has to replace the electric elements every few years due to mineral deposit buildup burning them out).
I could see having to repair some faucets, but expecting to have to replace all water lines and fixtures seems extreme to me (as a homeowner that sells and services large and small automatic control valves used in waterworks, industries, and multi-family housing).
Answer
Thank you for your insight. I would tend to agree about the seemingly "big" fix to the problem, but the city did run water through lines for two days in an attempt to flush the sand. Also, there is a great amount of sand in the pipes under the house.
The city report stated that "sand has been forced into the system". Some of our faucets barely run; we have no hot water, and our toilet runs continuously. The next door neighbor also has sand throughout their home.