A British Columbia condo owner has been ordered to pay $55,000 in damages after a tenant flushed a significant amount of cat litter, causing extensive plumbing issues. The Civil Resolution Tribunal ruled that the owner was responsible for the tenant's actions, as the lease agreement held the owner liable for any damage caused by the tenant. The incident occurred when the tenant repeatedly flushed cat litter down the toilet, leading to blockages and damage to the building's plumbing system. The tribunal found that the owner failed to properly supervise the tenant and did not take adequate steps to prevent such damage. The owner argued that the tenant should be held responsible, but the tribunal determined that the owner's duty to maintain the property included ensuring tenants did not engage in harmful practices. The decision highlights the importance of clear lease terms and proper tenant education to avoid costly repairs.
