If I caused a fire in my apartment 5 years ago, am I held responsible or is the apartment complex suppose to cover the damages?
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If I caused a fire in my apartment 5 years ago, am I held responsible or is the apartment complex suppose to cover the damages?
There was a grease fire in the kitchen and damage the stove area, countertops, and smoke damage. The damages were originally accessed for about $6,000, but now it shows up on my credit for about $13,000. Within the rent that is paid by the tenant, does any of the rent apply to an insurance for the unit being rented? Is a complex responsible for any insurance of their unit?
Asked on January 23, 2012 under Real Estate Law, Texas
Answers:
FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
If you caused a grease fire at an apartment complex where you live, you very well could be held accountable for the damages caused and the resulting repairs. This seems to be the case with you based upon the reference to the $13,000 amount in your credit report that seemingly is still owed to the landlord.
Tenants can get their own form of insurance called renter's insurance. However, no part of a tenant's rent (unless stated in the lease agreement) is applied to a policy of insurance for the tenant. Typically the landlord insures his property against damage caused by a tenant.
I suggest that you look into the $13,000 amount referenced in your credit report to see whether that amount is solely a claim or results from a judgment against you.
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