Legal Question in Real Estate Law in California

Pet owner liability

My question is:

I have a dog. I rent my home. My landlord does not allow dogs and said so on the lease. I do not have liability insurance and I am fairly certain my landlord does not.

My dog scared my postman causing her to fall and break her wrist. She is suing me and her attorney says that since I do not have liability insurance he is required to sue my landlord.

Is my landlord protected at all in this instance? Why would I not be the one liable?


Asked on 2/21/02, 6:20 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Ken Koenen Koenen & Tokunaga, P.C.

Re: Pet owner liability

As the owner of the property, he has a higher duty of care to others. Therefore, he is liable, but he can then come after you.

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Answered on 2/21/02, 7:39 pm
Bryan Whipple Bryan R. R. Whipple, Attorney at Law

Re: Pet owner liability

The landlord is being sued because of his 'deep pockets,' not because it is necessary in any formal legal sense. The landlord has a decent defense, but there is no certainty he will escape liability. If he loses, he can come after you since you violated your lease agreement.

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Answered on 2/21/02, 9:33 pm


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