Bump with object on road

[goldenb]

I am having some work done on our house and yesterday the plumber temporarily left a long handled spanner out of the water stop cock up on a shared driveway. Unfortunately , my neighbour drove into the pipe and caused slight damage to the underside of her car. Am I liable for any costs?? Who’s fault was it ?? Last night she came to see us and was not very happy with us. Should she deal directly with the plumber.?

[Paule]

Re: Bump with object on road

I think it will be down to you and your plumber.
Your Plumber shouldnt have left it like that, or at least left warning marker if it was an obstruction.
As the plumber was employed on your behalf on your premises, your neighbour will have a claim against you in the first instance,

How well do you get on with your neighbour, Is what they are asking unreasonable in the circumstances.
What relationship do you have with your plumber, Reputation is everythign to trades people nowadays so he may accept full responsibilty.

[goldenb]

Re: Bump with object on road

To be honest, we get on with them really well and don't want this to be the start of any bad feeling.

What I find difficult to get my head around , is that I have to take responsibility for something , when I wasn't there. Also, isn't there a responsibility on the driver to look where they are going??

[Paule]

Re: Bump with object on road

don't want this to be the start of any bad feeling.

This will be the tricky part

Also, isn't there a responsibility on the driver to look where they are going??

Yes, but also workmen on your premises also have a responsibilty to keep the site safe under Health & safety act.
Would you generally expect a spannner to be stuck out of the ground on your drive?

What has your plumber said? as this would be my first port of call.