Who is responsible in apartment electrical fire?

[divaslj]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? TX
I was involved in an electrical fire in my apartment and lost everything. I didnt have renters insurance however I did report problems with the electrical wiring to apartment maintenance several times. In addition, the apartments had everything totally cleaned out and did not notify me. There were a couple visible items that were not destroyed and I was not allowed to retrieve them. Is there any legal action I can take? Should the apartments be responsible for items lost due to their negligence in maintaining the apartment building?

 

[FarmerJ]

Can you get a copy of the fire marshals report as to its findings on the cause of the fire ? and do you have any written record off premise that backs up your past complaints of problems with the wiring ?

 

[Banned_Princess]

Definately, the key is, how many times did you complain in writing.

 

[nextwife]

And, did they determine the CAUSE to be the wiring in the property vs, for example, an overloaded outlet, or a lamp or other fixture with a short? The Cause will be important in assigning liability, and thus, financial responsibility.

 

[ecmst12]

You should have had renters insurance. All problems stem from that.

 

[Cvillecpm]

Yes - you needed renter's insurance AND you need a copy of the fire marshall's determination!!!

 

[TigerD]

All valid points, but fail to address the OPs question the landlord's disposing of his property.

I have never been in that situation, but I would think tossing your property would be inappropriate. But honestly, I'd also be more worried about my building than your trinkets.

DC

 

[ecmst12]

If he'd had renters insurance, he wouldn't have to worry about his trinkets (which probably were ruined anyway).