Who Is Responsible for Water Damage in Apartments?
Whether it’s from a torrential downpour or a busted pipe, water damage is a reality of life that many of us face. The aftermath can be a huge headache and put a dent in your bank as you seek damage restoration and replace furniture ad appliances. Luckily there are water damage restoration companies such as Tidal Wave Response who offer reliable and affordable water damage restoration. However, if you are living in an apartment, who is responsible for the damage cost? The tenant or the landlord?
Possible Reasons for The Water Damage
Water damage issues come from a variety of reasons, some preventable and others unpredictable and inevitable. While torrential rains and storms can cause water damage, most water damage issues are from faulty appliances or damaged plumbing systems. Overflowing bathtubs, leaking ceilings, flooded toilets, leaking refrigerators, overloaded washing machines, and broken pipes are some of the possible reasons for water damage. This matters because the nature of the water damage can determine who is responsible for the restoration costs.
Understand Your Local Renter Rights
In general, landlords are responsible for maintaining their property and ensuring that the property is in a livable condition. The landlord may be able to use your security deposit money to repair damages in some circumstances. However, the details will vary from state to state. Check with your local housing authority to get the specifics on renter rights in your area.
Review Your Lease
Hopefully you read your lease before signing it. Most property owners will detail the terms regarding property damage in the lease and list the type of damage that is covered by the landlord and the ones that become the renter’s responsibility. The lease may also detail actions that the parties can take in the event of damage to the property. If the property is in an unlivable condition, is the tenant required to continue paying rent? Can the landlord evict the tenant or can the tenant void the lease agreement? The answer to these questions can be found in your lease agreement.
Refer to Your Renters Insurance
Many landlords require tenants to obtain renters insurance. Even if it is not required of you, getting covered with renter’s insurance is a good idea to save you from the headache and potential repair costs later. Plus, even if the landlord covers damages to the property, it is less likely that they will be responsible for damages to your personal property. Renters insurance might cover damages to personal content and even the cost of lodging while repairs are pending. Refer to your renter’s insurance to get the details.
How Can Tidal Wave Response Help?
Regardless of who has to pay for the damages, it is crucial that you act quick to deal with the water damage. Water damage does not stop once everything is wet. Mold, bacteria, and mildew are only some of the consequences of water damage. If ignored, water can tear away at your building’s structure and cause more devastating damages. Call Tidal Wave Response for jaw-dropping response rates of under thirty minutes. We work with insurance companies so that you do not have to. Give us a call today and speak with a friendly representative to get started.
