If pipes burst and flood a rental who is liable for paying the tenant’s temporary housing costs?

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If pipes burst and flood a rental who is liable for paying the tenant’s temporary housing costs?

Approximately 5 months ago, while I was away on vacation, the pipes burst and flooded the house. My landlord promised, in a text, to pay temporary housing above the rent. The house was unlivable until middle of last month. The heat was set at 59 at night; 63 during day. The landlord is now refusing to pay for temporary housing, saying the flood was my fault (due to low temp). Are they liable for temporary housing costs? Am I liable?

Asked on July 22, 2011 Connecticut

Answers:

FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 12 years ago | Contributor

Whose fault is it for causing the pipes to burst and flood the unit? If it was no one's fault then the landlord is obligated to get the unit fixed as soon as possible and pay you the increase of any temporary housing you were forced to obtain over your agreed upon monthly rental amount.

Look at the lease's terms for further clarification in such a situation if you have a written lease. There may be helpful language for you.

I would print out the landlord's text on paper for future reference if the landlord refuses to pay the increased amount over your monthly rent. He or she should also pay you some extra amount for the inconvenience you endured. It sounds that the burst pipes just happened through no one's fault. Landlird should ay the extra costs you had.

Good luck.


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