AWWA JAW51669

When a plumbing system fails and causes damage, pipe-related liabilities can affectnumerous policyholders, from pipe manufacturers, designers, and installers to public and private users of the product. The authors examine a number of coverage issues raised by insurers in response to claims related to pipe liability. These questions include when coverage is triggered and which insurers are liable for pipe problems that develop over many years. In addition, the authors detail arguments that policyholders can use to defeat the principal exclusions raised by insurers and describe the recourses available to compel insurers to cover pipe-related liabilities. Although a final determination of coverage ultimately depends on the specific language of the policy and underlying facts of each case, many of the defenses and limitations raised by insurers can be overcome if policyholders vigorously pursue their rights to coverage. Includes 66 references.