If you are the registered owner of a sectional title unit, you should note that the maintenance of such a geyser is YOUR responsibility.
Maintenance of a geyser is always the owner’s responsibility, whether the geyser is situated inside the unit or on common property. The body corporate insurance does not cover maintenance-related geyser problems.
However, if a geyser bursts, this is normally covered by body corporate insurance and the owner of the section is responsible only for the insurance excess. Sometimes, due to the high cost of geyser insurance, the body corporate’s insurance may not include cover for burst geysers, leaving the owner responsible for replacing the geyser.
It is always advisable for a buyer or owner of a sectional title unit to check whether the body corporate’s insurance covers burst geysers, and to arrange suitable cover if this is not provided for.
Wietz Viljoen, WVA INC.
This article is for general information purposes and is aimed at advising the public. It should not be used or relied on as legal or other professional advice. No liability can be accepted for any errors or omissions nor for any loss or damage arising from reliance upon any information herein. Always contact your legal adviser for specific and detailed advice.