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Fire Damage Liability Explained
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I accidentally started a fire in the bedroom of my apartment. I thought I was insured with renters insurance but only one of my roommates was. They are basically rebuilding the apartment from scratch. The landlord hasn’t said anything about legal action but are they likely to make me pay all damages? The water from the sprinkler in just my room flooded our entire apartment and the apartment below. If I can’t pay for all damages immediately will I be arrested?
Hello ****. It seems like you're in a complicated situation. To provide more accurate information, could you please tell me which state you live in?
Minnesota
Hello ****,
*. In Minnesota, a landlord may sue for damages beyond normal wear and tear.
*. Arrest is unlikely unless arson is suspected.
*. Payment plans can be arranged in court.
*. It's recommended to consult a local attorney.
*. In Minnesota, a landlord may sue for damages beyond normal wear and tear.
*. Arrest is unlikely unless arson is suspected.
*. Payment plans can be arranged in court.
*. It's recommended to consult a local attorney.
How long do they have to charge me for damages? Also can they sue for damages and file an insurance claim?
Hello ****,
*. In Minnesota, the statute of limitations for property damage is 6 years.
*. Yes, landlords can sue for damages and also file an insurance claim, but they can't double recover for the same loss.
*. In Minnesota, the statute of limitations for property damage is 6 years.
*. Yes, landlords can sue for damages and also file an insurance claim, but they can't double recover for the same loss.
So how can they sue and file an insurance claim at the same time?
Hello ****,
A landlord can file an insurance claim to cover the repair costs and also sue you for any deductible they had to pay or if the damage exceeds their policy limit. However, they cannot "double dip" or get compensated twice for the same damage.
A landlord can file an insurance claim to cover the repair costs and also sue you for any deductible they had to pay or if the damage exceeds their policy limit. However, they cannot "double dip" or get compensated twice for the same damage.
Do they have to sue me for the deductible or can I just agree to pay it?
Hello ****,
You can definitely agree to pay the deductible without them having to sue you. This could be part of a settlement to avoid further legal action. It's always good to get such agreements in writing.
You can definitely agree to pay the deductible without them having to sue you. This could be part of a settlement to avoid further legal action. It's always good to get such agreements in writing.
Is there a time limit we can be without housing while they fix the damage? Since it was caused by me accidentally I’m assuming not
Hello ****,
In Minnesota, there isn't a specific time limit for repairs. However:
*. Landlords must make repairs promptly.
*. You may have rights to temporary housing or a rent reduction.
*. Always consult with a local attorney for precise advice.
In Minnesota, there isn't a specific time limit for repairs. However:
*. Landlords must make repairs promptly.
*. You may have rights to temporary housing or a rent reduction.
*. Always consult with a local attorney for precise advice.
If my apartment hasn’t said anything about deductibles or anything like that should I hire a lawyer yet?
Hello ****,
It's advisable to consult with a lawyer given the complexity of your situation. They can provide advice specific to your circumstances, especially if your landlord decides to pursue legal action.
It's advisable to consult with a lawyer given the complexity of your situation. They can provide advice specific to your circumstances, especially if your landlord decides to pursue legal action.
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