renters garage burnt

[sanDkay44]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? Ohio

I have been a renter at this address for 10 years. Landlord has not been to house for eight years. told me in past to do what I want with house as far as painting,care etc. stated he trusted my judgement and that when I left, he was just going to sell house. I could stay as long as I wanted. He still feels that way. Rent is $600.00 monthly

A week ago, I gave my 20 year old son permission to work on his car in my driveway. He has worked on cars here for years without incident. He was using propane torches and accidentally hit fuel line. Car caught fire and burned 3/4 of garage down.

Landlord has homeowners insurance (no landlord insurance) which will cover damages, but insurance company states my grandson is liable for restitution which is $24,000. I feel that I gave him permission to work on cars , as we were never told not to and if anyone is responsible, it should be me. He makes only 200.00 a week. I feel that the fact I have no property and and retired on disability, they feel that he has the means to pay this back.

I need advice, do I get attorney (which I cannot afford) or is this cut and dry for insurance company. He has no assetts, just very old truck. I feel I owe it to my grandson to inquire.
Than you very much for any thought or advice on this.

sincerely, Sandy at [email protected]What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)?

 

[Zigner]

Your grandson is liable due to his negligence. If you feel so bad, then YOU should pay it for him.

 

[seniorjudge]

...insurance company states my grandson is liable for restitution which is $24,000...

That is correct.

What exactly is it that you want to hire a lawyer for?

 

[sanDkay44]

Was only asking

Thank you for your advice. I was only asking as a concerned grandmother who wanted
to know the facts. I am sorry that you could not have answered without sarcasm. I am not knowledgable about homeowners insurance, that is why I asked. As for the kind person who suggested I pay for it, my grandson has said that if he is the responsible party, he would pay. I will help, if I am able. Please try to be kinder to your new members. You never know when you may need advice.

 

[ecmst12]

There is a difference between sarcasm and bluntness.

You may have some liability but the insurance company is choosing not to pursue you. However nothing is stopping you from paying them. But it sounds like you don't have much more money then he does.

If you had RENTERS INSURANCE, it would cover anything that you could be liable, and possibly anything that your guests would be liable for. Why don't you have it? Every renter should. If the house were to burn down, even if it was no fault of your own, your landlord's insurance would cover the house but not your clothes, furniture, and other worldly posessions. You are leaving yourself open for utter disaster by not insuring yourself.

 

[moburkes]

Your grandson should also be able to get a job where he makes more than $200/week. If he is, in the majority of the time, as good with cars as you say he is, as a mechanic he can make more than that. But, yes, he is responsible for the damage he caused. The type of insurance your landlord has is irrelevant for this issue. The fact that he has the wrong type of insurance only affects his relationship with the insurance company, not any liability for this issue, or the outcome of the claim, which was accurate.