DeSpirito v. Bristol County Water Co.

102 R.I. 50, 227 A.2d 782 (1967)

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DeSpirito v. Bristol County Water Co.

Rhode Island Supreme Court
102 R.I. 50, 227 A.2d 782 (1967)

  • Written by Tammy Boggs, JD

Facts

There was a break in a drainpipe that ran from the home of Antonio DeSpirito (plaintiff) to the street. The drainpipe was controlled and maintained by Bristol County Water Co. (the water company) (defendant). Until the water company repaired the drainpipe 10 days after the break, groundwater did not properly drain. DeSpirito’s cellar became flooded to a depth of about 18 inches. As a result, certain household appliances and personal effects in DeSpirito’s cellar were damaged. DeSpirito sued the water company alleging negligence. DeSpirito testified at trial about amounts he had spent to repair or replace a washing machine, sump pump, and heating unit, among other items. DeSpirito sought to recover his expenditures. The trial court agreed and awarded him $576.50 plus costs of suit. The water company appealed, raising issues related to the measure and sufficiency of proof of damages.

Rule of Law

Issue

Holding and Reasoning (Joslin, J.)

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