What a Tenant Is Liable for After a Flood

2/14/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of E.Vancouver/Clark Co responds to your flood and storm damage

Flooding at your property can be very stressful. The last thing you want is to go through a disaster and have no renter’s insurance or any idea how to proceed. As a renter, it is best to prepare and know for what you are accountable. This breakdown of duties can help you avoid confusion.

Tenant Responsibilities

As a renter, you are more protected than you might realize. For instance, if you can no longer occupy your commercial space because of flood damage, you have some options:

• Most insurance coverage will take care of temporary relocation costs. If your business is unable to be used because of excessive damage, you will have the option to move.
  
• You will not be obligated to pay for the amount of time that you have vacated the original space. What if you are not displaced but the damage is still significant? You might be able to ask for a rent deduction.
  
• You should also have the option to cancel your lease when you need to relocate. Make sure to inform the property owner either before moving out or soon after.
  
  

One thing a tenant should always have is renter’s insurance. You can never predict when disaster will strike in Lacamas, WA. Since you are still responsible for your possessions, it would be better to know that you are covered.

Property Owner Responsibilities

The property owner is responsible for all damage done to the building they are leasing. That includes anything rented to the tenant, such as appliances. However, most property insurance does not include flooding. Property owners should look at their policies and buy flood insurance if needed. The number of a water damage repair service can also come in handy when an emergency arises.

At flood at your property does not need to be the end of the world. As a tenant, make sure you have good renter’s insurance and honest communication with the property owner. As an owner, flood insurance may be a wise idea. Stay prepared, and you can hopefully avoid stress and get back to normal in no time.