Can a landlord make me responsible for damages to a common area of my apartment building that were caused by my guests?

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Can a landlord make me responsible for damages to a common area of my apartment building that were caused by my guests?

At the apartment that I currently rent, the front doors to the building have vertical rods that are depressed to exit the building. One evening upon returning with some friends, one of the members of my party held onto this rod from the inside of the building, while I attempted to pull the door open to gain access from the outside. The rod subsequently became detached from the door, and my landlord has said that I am responsible for the damages. When the door was broken, I did notify them that members of my party had broken the door, in a good faith attempt to be a responsible tenant.

Asked on May 13, 2012 under Real Estate Law, Missouri

Answers:

SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 11 years ago | Contributor

Yes, a tenant is responsible to the landlord for damage to the property (including to common areas) which is caused by the tenant, the tenant's family or pets, and the tenant's guests. You are responsible for damage done by those you allow or permit onto the premises.


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