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Hi there,
My parked car was hit by a huge icicle which fell from the building next to the parking. Is the building's owner liable to pay for the considerable damage?
Greetings,
When a third-party individual or their property is damaged by ice or snow which falls from a building, the building's owner is only liable to cover damages if there there is substantial evidence showing that they did not perform due dilligence.
Examples of failure to perform due dilligence may include failure to install snow guards on a building's roof or to clear large icicles. If a building's owner can prove that they took necessary measures to prevent damage to third parties, they will not be held liable for damages.
Those using parking lots or other facilities in close proximity to buildings are also required to exercise due dilligence by assessing whether or not a building poses a risk to themselves or their property. When you park your car underneath large icicles or take other possible risks, you accept a certain amount of liability for possible damages yourself.
Semi-comprehensive and fully-comprehensive car insurance covers damages to your car caused by natural hazards. If you have this insurance, you can file a claim to your insurance provider if you are unable to hold the building's owner liable for the damages.
Best regards from Moneyguru
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