Overview
- A kitchen tap was turned by the owner’s cat, causing a flood that began the night of Wednesday, August 19 and spread through the apartment.
- The absent owner saw the flood on a home surveillance camera around 1 a.m. and alerted an emergency call center after she could not reach the person caring for the cat.
- Firefighters used a key provided by the sitter to enter the flat, absorbed water with towels to contain the flow and found water running into a neighbor’s cellar below.
- Authorities reported the cat is unharmed and that there will be no criminal prosecution of the animal, while the owner was told to return and dry the premises urgently to prevent more damage.
- Officials and reports noted that the owner remains practically responsible for repairs and that quick drying is needed to avoid secondary harm such as mold or structural damage, matters often handled through home liability insurance.