Seeking compensation from pipeline company for septic system damage and increased costs.

Question

I own a rental home where pipeline workers damaged the septic system before Easter, leading to sewage flooding. This has occurred twice now. The pipeline company has acknowledged responsibility and is covering cleaning and home repair costs. However, my tenants will need to connect to the sewer, which will increase monthly expenses by $150, plus there will be additional connection fees. What compensation or coverage can I request from the pipeline company for these ongoing and connection costs, especially considering the repeated incidents?

Kent Thomas Jones · Answer

I would get a good local attorney.  You are probably sue them for negligence and recklessnes.  You may be suing them for an intentional action, depending on whether they saw your sewer and just ignored it.  The damages could be extream.  Either they need to reconstruct your sewer or put them on the piplie at $150 more a month.  That will probably drive some of your tenants away.  As far as damages for the ones that stay, I'm not quite sure how long you can be compensated for hooking them up to the line.  In addition, you may have an action under the codes that are relevant to their business.

Michael G. Floyd · Answer

Good Morning: 
It is rather difficult to answer your question without know what the provisions are contained in your lease. The issue is who is paying the ongoing costs, you or the tenant. The individual paying the costs is the proper party to sue. 
M.G.Floyd, Esquire

James L. Arrasmith · Answer

You have every right to request compensation for more than just the immediate cleanup and repairs—especially since the damage was not only preventable but repeated. Because the pipeline company has already admitted responsibility, you can reasonably argue that the cost of connecting to the sewer system is a direct consequence of their negligence. It’s not just a one-time repair; it’s a long-term shift in how your property operates and how much it will cost to maintain. 
 
Start by documenting the estimated sewer connection fees, any permit or installation costs, and a written statement showing the increase in monthly utility bills. Present this as part of a complete claim package to the pipeline company, and ask for coverage of both the one-time and ongoing expenses. You can request either a lump-sum payment to offset future increased costs or a long-term agreement to reimburse the additional charges over time. 
 
It’s also fair to include compensation for lost rental value or disruption to your tenants, especially if they experienced health hazards or needed to vacate the property temporarily. You’ve been more than patient, and now it’s time to make sure the solution matches the damage done—not just to the property, but to your long-term financial position. Keep every communication in writing and don’t be afraid to push for a fair outcome.

Q: Seeking compensation from pipeline company for septic system damage and increased costs.