Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in California

If the electrical work was the cause of the fire, generally the fire department will identify that as the cause of the fire in their report. If it is "inconclusive" then it is just that - there is no way to know for sure based solely on the report if it was his fault for bad electrical work, or if it is your fault. The fact that there was no permit does not automatically make the landlord at fault for the fire. He has to have actually done the work wrong, which in turn caused the fire. Have you discussed with the Fire Marshall the issue of illegal or unpermitted electrical work? That might draw their attention to something they did not see before. You will want to consult with an attorney in your area. If your landlord has told his insurance company your son started the fire, they are going to independently investigate the fire, and will possibly come after you for the cost to rebuild the property. You may also wish to preempt all of this and hire your own expert to inspect and determine the cause of the fire. If it is his fault, he would not only owe you a refund of your deposit, but would be liable for all of your lost possessions. Good luck, but I do recommend hiring someone to represent your interests.

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