Who Is Responsible for Apartment Rental Fire Repair?

8/28/2018 (Permalink)

Brooklyn apartment fire damage can a complete loss

There is plenty to worry about when renting out apartments to tenants. Liability is often a major concern when renting out living spaces in Brooklyn, NY. By being knowledgeable of liability for an apartment fire, you can plan ahead when an unexpected fire strikes your property.

What If the Fire Is Due to Disrepair?

As the landlord, the building’s general upkeep is an obligation. Whenever the building burns down due to an unpreventable accident, commercial insurance comes into play to treat the fire damage. When a fire is due to neglecting upkeep on electrical systems or failing to fix a problem brought to your attention, you are additionally liable in other damages to the tenant:

• Damaged possessions
• Wage loss
• Temporary living arrangements
• Any additional damages claimed against you

When an insurance claim is filed, it’ll be inspected for a root cause. If it is proven to be due to failure to keep the building safe and habitable, the tenant is able to file a claim for damages. It’s helpful to take pictures and document anything you find as soon as it’s safe to enter after the apartment fire is contained. By doing so, you will have evidence to refute any future false claims.

What Is a Tenant Responsible For?

If the fire is determined to be no party’s fault, the tenant is responsible for replacing their own possessions. The landlord’s insurance still covers the building’s repair. The tenant’s risk for property loss can be alleviated by purchasing renters’ insurance beforehand.

If the tenant is discovered to have set the fire intentionally or due to gross negligence, he or she will be liable for both the building and possessions.

How Is the Damage Repaired?

After insurance is contacted, the next step is to seek out fire damage repair experts in the area. These companies use industrial machines to restore and replace damaged property. Regardless of liability, the damage can be treated. Knowledge of apartment fire liability allows you to assess and plan for where the bill is going to end up.

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