Exterminator caused a leak

During a service call to our lower duplex rental unit an exterminator suggested to our tenant that he could pull out and foam insulate behind a dishwasher unit to exclude mice. Our tenant acquiesced as the exterminator claimed that the flexible copper line made doing so possible. 30 minutes later a large leak was discovered coming through the light fixture in the bedroom directly below the dishwasher. I arrived 30 minutes after the leak was detected and turned off the supply line. I discovered that the leak was coming from the connection where the copper line joined the dishwasher. When I called to complain, the exterminator claimed he was not liable for any damage as once he is granted permission to move a refrigerator or dishwasher he is not culpable. He suggested I call his “legal” department to confirm this was the case. I feel it was an honest mistake but feel they should be responsible for any damage caused by his intervention. Seeking guidance/advice about how to proceed. Thanks

clumpo

in Exterminator 11 years and 11 months ago

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boredatwork | 11 years and 11 months ago

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Who actually moved the machine? If your tenant “acquiesced” and moved it, I think you have absolutely no case. If the exterminator did, it might be on him If he has a “legal” department, it must be a pretty big company.

Townie | 11 years and 11 months ago

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I hope he did a good job of mouse proofing at least.

daveinbedstuy | 11 years and 11 months ago

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Apart from whatever damage was caused below to the ceiling, this is a pretty minor simple fix. If they aren’t going to do it just let it go and get someone else in to repair it. And post a non-recommendation here for the exterminator. If you pull a dishwasher or a refrigerator with a water supply out you always run the risk of this happening at the connection.