The aftermath of a busted emergency sprinkler in Sullivan Residence Hall left Billy Kronenwetter with ruined clothes and damaged personal items, but Kronenwetter said things could have been worse.

“Luckily, because of the way many of my textbooks were positioned on the shelf, most of them are useable,” he said. “They have water damage, but I am still able to use them, which is a good thing.”

As far as electronics were concerned, Kronenwetter said he was fortunate.

“My laptop, surprisingly, was just fine, which is awesome,” he said.

Kronenwetter had damages to his printer, and was very disappointed to lose his personal iPod.  

The flood also raised awareness of many issues which needed to be addressed, the most crucial being monetary responsibility.

“As far as my clothes, Housing waived the fees of the washers and dryers so I could wash them for free,” he said. “After I washed my clothes, they are fine.”

Cleaning Kronenwetter’s clothes was the least expensive fee associated with the sprinkler incident, he said.

Water damages and ruined personal belongings became the bulk of costs of the busted sprinkler incident. After assessing the damages, the question became who would be held accountable.

Kronenwetter, after speaking with Housing, is the responsible party.   

“Because of the waiver everyone has to sign when they sign up to live on campus, Housing is not liable for anything that happens with the dorms,” he said.

The University Housing agreement states, “The University shall assume no responsibility for the loss, damage or theft of personal property belonging to, or in the custody of the student for any cause whatsoever, whether such losses occur in student rooms, public areas or elsewhere in Housing. “

University Housing, within the housing agreement, encourages all students to have personal property insurance, which Kronenwetter has.   

“As far as I know, this is the same deal, my homeowner’s insurance is covering all the damages,” Kronenwetter said.  

Michael Gust, a freshman in technology education, said residents should be aware of the risks of living on campus.

“Students need to know that their personal belongings are their responsibility, even if they live in campus facilities,” Gust said. “The rules that are there are designed to keep [students], and their stuff, safe. Students need to make sure they do all they can to prevent accidents to protect themselves and their belongings.”

Looking back on the event, Kronenwetter said, “It could have turned out a lot worse. Everyone has been very helpful, and it turned out better than I though it would turn out.”