When Bernadette Hagan was hit with a staggering repair bill of over $18,000, it was through no fault of her own.
The damage was caused by a contractor hired by the Sherwood Elm Grove Trail Association.
They were supposed to replace a fence but instead caused significant underground electrical damage to her property.
This unfortunate event unveiled a series of misfortunes and mishandlings that would ensue.
The mishap began innocently with the installation of the new fence.
Contractors accidentally cut through the underground electrical wiring.
This error went undetected until months later, when Hagan unexpectedly lost power. An assessment confirmed that the damage occurred during the fence installation, leading to a bigger problem than initially anticipated.
For Hagan’s older home, restoring electricity was not merely about repairing the damage.
Her home required several upgrades to meet current electrical standards.
This meant that the necessary enhancements to her electrical system significantly increased the cost of repairs, adding stress to an already tense situation.
Caught between the immediate need for power and the slow-turning wheels of bureaucracy, Hagan faced a tough decision.
She chose to finance the repairs herself.
This decision led to considerable financial strain, as she had to cover the hefty costs out of her own pocket without assistance.
Attempting to recoup some of her losses, Hagan filed an insurance claim, but it was denied.
The denial was based on the utility lines not being properly marked.
Both the contractor and the Trail Association absolved themselves of any responsibility, blaming the incident on incorrect marking.
Months after the incident, Hagan’s situation remains unresolved.
She has repeatedly tried to engage with the Trail Association to seek redress.
Unfortunately, her efforts have been fruitless, leaving her to shoulder the financial burden alone, a stark reminder of her vulnerability in this ordeal.
This cautionary tale has prompted experts to advise homeowners on how to protect themselves.
Taking photos of the work area and knowing about any contractors nearby is advised.
These precautions could spare others the chaos Hagan has experienced.
The story of Hagan’s plight has resonated widely, amassing over 3.2 million views on a video detailing her situation.
Viewer response has been one of outrage and sympathy.
Many have expressed frustration over her having to bear the cost of someone else’s mistake, with calls for legal action if the situation is not rectified.
One person said, “That’s ridiculous. She didn’t even do anything and yet she got stuck with the bill. If these companies don’t rescind that bill, I hope that she sues them and get a big payload from them.”
Bernadette Hagan’s ordeal highlights the vulnerability of homeowners to external actions and the tangled responsibilities when damage occurs.
It underscores the need for stricter regulations and clearer accountability.
Moreover, it serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and proactive measures to protect one’s home and finances.
Check out the full story in the video below!
Please SHARE this with your friends and family.
