Legal Question in Consumer Law in California

I smell something burnt, and I check on the ceramic heater, it's off. then I realized that the socket outlet wasn't working. So, I tried another socket outlet in the same room, it's not working. Then I realized that the socket outlet in another room was actually burnt with fire !! and melt a bit. Can I make the heater's company to pay for everything I need to fix now ?


Asked on 1/14/11, 12:52 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Michael Stone Law Offices of Michael B. Stone Toll Free 1-855-USE-MIKE

No, in all probability you overloaded your electrical circuit and this was 100% your fault. Next time add up the number of amperes each appliance draws (it is marked on the bottom of the appliance) and compare with the amperage rating of the circuit breaker before you plug in a new appliance. If you don't know how not to overload electrical circuits, consult a licensed electrician, and buy lots of homeowners' or renters' insurance since it appears certain that you will one day burn down your house. It is also possible that someone may have bypassed the fuse or circuit breaker, or installed a fuse or circuit breaker with an incorrect amperage rating, thus greatly increasing the risk of an electrical fire. Best to have the electrician check your home before you plug in any more heaters or other high-wattage appliances.

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Answered on 1/19/11, 1:12 am


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