What if the power went out and my computer died?

This morning the power went out while my computer was on. It was due to the city doing work on the lines, but they didn't notify us. If my computer had not turned back on, is there anything I could do about it? Like ask the city for a new one?

Now, don't get me wrong. I most likely wouldn't even fight it and I'd just live without a computer for...well, a long time. But if I wanted to, could I fight it and get them to pay for another one? Because if they'd notified us, I could have turned it off before they began their work.

Just curious.

Well, actually it *is* surge protected. And since it *is* surge protected, doesn't that amplify my rights to restitution? I took my measures to protect it, and it was still damaged.

P.S. This situation is hypothetical so there's no reason to get all offensive.

You can try by filing a complaint with the city (who will respond in 6 months to a year) stating that you weren't notified of the work being done to the power lines and therefore your computer was damaged.

However, the city takes it's time to get back to people, and sometimes, doesn't respond at all stating it must have "fallen through the cracks".

Good luck.

No you could not, it is your responsibility to take reasonable measure to ensure that you goods are protected.

You should not only have surge protection on you main electrical panel, but also on any high value goods.

Why was the computer not plugged into a surge protected power bar?

If it was, turn the bar back on.

A case against the city would require demonstrating gross negligence or willful misconduct. Failing to notify you of the power outage doesn't come close to qualifying.