Veteran Seeks Reimbursement Following Costly Plumbing Failure Tied to HOA Property

A Las Vegas homeowner and Vietnam War veteran says he has been left responsible for nearly $15,000 in repair costs after a plumbing failure he believes was caused by a tree maintained by his homeowners association.

Larry McClellan, who has lived in his home for about 20 years, said a sewer line rupture occurred in August after tree roots damaged his toilet and plumbing system. According to McClellan, the roots were traced to a tree located in a common area managed by Taylor Association Management. He said the association declined to accept responsibility for the damage.

The rupture reportedly resulted in an open sewer line, requiring extensive repairs. McClellan said the initial estimate was approximately $8,000, but receipts later showed total costs reaching nearly $14,700. The work included excavation, sewer line replacement, concrete and tile restoration, and installation of a new toilet.

McClellan said he submitted documentation and repair invoices to the association but claims his requests were repeatedly denied. He stated that he exchanged dozens of emails with management and grew frustrated with what he described as delayed responses.

In correspondence reviewed by media outlets, Taylor Association Management reportedly stated that it was not responsible for the damage because the tree was located in a common area, despite McClellan saying he has never maintained the tree himself.

The repairs have since been completed, but McClellan said the tree remains in place and that new root growth may already be affecting the replaced plumbing. He said he plans to contact the state ombudsman’s office for assistance and is seeking reimbursement and an apology from the association.

Taylor Association Management has been contacted for comment but has not publicly responded.