Renters have a right to a safe and habitable home. Improperly maintained rental properties can pose a safety risk to renters and guests. Some examples of accidents at a rental property include faulty staircases or failing balcony structures leading to slip and fall injuries. The landlord is responsible for regular maintenance and repair of a rental property and should regularly inspect the property to keep the renters and guests safe. The property owner is required to have insurance to cover most incidents, but renters’ insurance can further protect the people on the property. Proactive measures will keep the property livable and protect the renters and guests.
Landlord’s Responsibilities
Every state has laws regarding tenant and landlord protections, which vary depending on the property’s location. Landlords must keep the property safe for the renters and their guests. A landlord is required to regularly inspect the rental property to ensure the safety of anyone living there. Renters should be notified about any hazards a landlord finds on the property. Professionals should repair damage or dangerous conditions within the mental home or on the property. Landlords are liable when someone gets hurt after ignoring a hazard on the property.
Some states have laws requiring landlords to maintain safe environments on their property. Tenants have the right to livable premises, which means a safe and sanitary home. A rental home must provide vital facilities, such as water, heat, electricity, and windows. A landlord should repair any repair request from their tenant to keep the rental property habitable. Some states allow the tenant to repair the home and take the costs out of the rent. If an injury results from the landlord’s neglect, they may be liable for damages.
Maintaining and implementing security measures is also part of keeping renters and property safe. Security is a factor in preventing tenant injuries and criminal acts on the property. Rental property security measures can include cameras, lighting, and alarms. Tenants should take extra precautions by locking their doors and windows. Renters and landlords should include assault and battery on the insurance coverage in case of an incident because most policies don’t cover it.
Steps Renters Can take to Protect Themselves
As a tenant, it is vital to take steps to protest yourself from unsafe living conditions. Carefully observe the property and report to the owner any defects, hazards, or broken items, such as handrails that you observe and request repairs. Take photos of areas that need repair and document any correspondence with your landlord regarding repairs. If your landlord does not repair areas of concern and you incur expenses to fix something, save your receipts and ask to deduct the cost from your rent. If problems persist, consider reporting the property to your local building inspector.
Insurance
If a tenant is injured due to a landlord’s negligence, the landlord may be liable for medical bills and other damages incurred. A property owner should have insurance coverage to protect themself and their tenants. Landlord insurance should cover any liability for property damage or personal injury from negligence. Make sure to review your landlord’s coverage when you sign a lease. There are gaps in insurance, so having renter’s insurance will further protect you.
Tenants should obtain renter’s insurance to protect themselves from damages. Personal property insurance protects renter belongings which includes furniture, electronics, and personal belongings. Liability and medical expenses insurance cover liability if there is an injury on the rental property. Temporary living expenses insurance protects tenants if their home becomes unlivable.
Conclusion
There are several ways to reduce the risk of injury on a rental property. Properly maintaining the home to provide a safe place for renters is the primary responsibility of the owner but renters should be proactive about raising any concerns about needed repairs or hazards. Documenting hazards as well as any communication can protect you in case you do incur on injury on a rental property.