Managing undeclared water damage by tenants
Water damage, whether minor or major, can be a headache for landlords of rental properties. However, what can be even more frustrating is discovering that the tenant did not report these damages in a timely manner, which generates in costly repairs. In this article, we will explore the insurances involved, discuss the responsibility of reporting water damage, and guide landlords on how to effectively handle this delicate situation.
Before delving into details, it’s important to understand the different insurances at play when water damage occurs. Firstly, there is the tenant’s home insurance, which is supposed to cover damages caused to the property itself. Afterwards, there is the tenant’s liability insurance, which may cover damages to other property or people. Finally, there is non-occupant homeowner’s insurance, which can help cover the costs of repairing physical damage to the property.
Now, who is responsible for reporting water damage? In theory, it is the tenant’s responsibility to report any water damage to both the landlord and to their home insurance. However, in some cases, tenants may overlook this step or choose to remain silent, leaving the burden on the owner to resolve the problem.
- Communicate regularly with your tenant: Establish a trustful relationship by encouraging your tenant to report any issues as soon as they arise. The quicker you are informed, the easier it will be to manage the water damage and avoid more serious problems.
- Document the damages: When you discover undeclared water damage, take photos and/or videos to document the damages. This can be helpful during discussions with insurance companies and repair professionals.
- Contact the relevant insurances: Contact the tenant’s home insurance as well as your insurance, if applicable. Inform them of the situation and follow their procedures to open a claim.
- Engage professionals: Engage experts to assess the damages and perform necessary repairs. Make sure to choose reliable and qualified companies to ensure quality work.
