Proceeding Next After A Break In...
Hi All,
The first floor of my 2 fam was broken into.
They managed to open the window, get in and take some items from my tenant.
She took over on Feb 1st, but hasn't really moved in. She has been slowly bringing some items
I'm guessing, that had she moved right in and put up blinds, this would not have happened. In any case, she's implying that I should somehow compensate
her for her loss. The lease states explicitly that I am not responsible (which she is aware of).
She said she'll call her attorney, and I said that is fair and fine, but she is still obligated to pay the rent.
I offered to install an alarm in the back window/door.
I mantained a calm demeanor the entire time.
She was very upset (understandably).
Have you had to deal with something like this? What has been your approach? I don't want to seem
insensitive, but I shouldn't give in, correct?
Thanks
-a
Does/did she have tenant's insurance? Does your lease expand upon her responsibility to acquire it?
I have to agree with you. However,some towns do require a certain amount of lighting or other saftey measures so she could cause you problems over that if its not up to specs.
No, and I meant to bring it up before she moved in, but never got around to it. I was going to make it a requirement before moving in (in the lease), but didn't (live and learn)
I'd rather nip this in the bud before the lawyers move in.
Thanks for your replies
-a
Never like to hear of unfortunate circumstances, but God forbid someone takes some personal responsibility...Any idea on the value of what was taken? If not a lot, she'll spend more wasting her time with the attorney. They'll be hard pressed to find any liability on your part (not to say they can't try), anyway, in my opinion, barring any local ordinance that creates responsibility. Don't fret too badly.
I've asked her to provide a list and make copies of the receipts.
Thanks again for the advice.
-a
Do you think she'll expect compensation by your request?
Well, it was more of a move to seem sensitive to the situation. I told her that I would not promise anything and that I would at the very least install a modest alarm system.
-a
That's cool. Good luck, but don't worry too much.
Does your lease say anything about your insurance does not cover their stuff and that they need to purchase renters insurance to be covered.
Making renters insurance a requirement can be a double edge sword. You can get in trouble if you do not followup and make sure that they get it and keep it in force.
Be calm but firm. Tell her that your insurance only covers the building. How could your insurance possibly cover her stuff. Insurance companies do not let you purchase insurance on other people or their stuff without their written consent. You are sorry for this unfortunate matter, but you are not going to compensate her for her lose.
Brenda
Great call, Brenda.