Are the neighbours obliged to contribute to costs incurred for a communal roof drain?

Questioner

Good evening. We recently had a leak. Because the walls had become wet, we had a roofer come. It was due to the communal roof drain. We did not know that the roof drain was communal. I immediately rang the neighbours' doorbell and informed them. The roofer was still on the roof at the time and explained to the neighbours what was going on. I discussed the bill with the neighbour and suggested that we split it. They were not happy but were looking forward to the bill. I have now handed over the bill but was told that she wants to find out whether she should pay it because according to her I should have informed her in advance. The joint bill is €275. Can the neighbours refuse to pay the bill or can I recover half of it from them? I would like to hear from you.

Lawyer

Your neighbours have agreed to the work of this roofer and the reason behind it. That means that they simply have to pay half. If they were afraid of high bills, they should have indicated that then and asked the roofer or you about the costs. That is no longer possible afterwards.