Would I legeally be responsible for a fire on our apartment patio with proof from the fire department that it was undetermind how it started?
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Would I legeally be responsible for a fire on our apartment patio with proof from the fire department that it was undetermind how it started?
We were sleeping and woke up to a fire on our patio, our apartment complex is holding us responsible for the fire becasue we didn’t have renters insurance and they are stating that it was violation of our lease so they are holding us responsible. They are also making us pay for new carpet even though it was like that when we moved in but this new company took over in the mean time.
Asked on October 16, 2012 under Real Estate Law, Arizona
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
Sounds like there is a lot going on here. First, you need to read the lease and second, you need a copy of that report about the fire. If it happened on the OUTSIDE of your apartment (and does it overlook a public street or courtyard?) and the cause of the fire is undetermined, how can they hold you liable? Yes, if you were supposed to have insurance and did not that is an issue but a separate one. The landlord has insurance. He can make a claim. Get help. Good luck.
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