What are my rights if I rented a room and the landlord’s kids left the back door unlocked and my things were stolen?
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What are my rights if I rented a room and the landlord’s kids left the back door unlocked and my things were stolen?
Asked on May 14, 2012 under Real Estate Law, California
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
You may be able to sue the landlord for your loss. While a landlord is not a tenant's insurer and is not responsible for a tenant's losses simply by dint of the tenant's residence, a landlord is responsible for providing reasonable security--and his children leaving the door open could violate that duty. Also, a parent is responsible for the negligent (or careless) actions of his or her minor children which cause losses to others. Therefore, there are two different potential grounds under which you may be able to hold the landlord liable.
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