Legal Question in Real Estate Law in California

property damage case inquiry

I recently had approximately $20k worth of equipment destroyed in a storage unit fire (which was caused by another storage unit tenant). I am trying to figure out if I have any recourse with regard to being reimbursed or awarded any money or insurance money from the storage unit owner. I never signed any documents absolving them of responsibility in case of a fire. If I should consult with an attorney, please let me know what area of law this is called, would it be called something like civil personal property law?


Asked on 11/11/08, 12:14 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Bryan Whipple Bryan R. R. Whipple, Attorney at Law

Re: property damage case inquiry

You should re-read your contract very carefully to see if the owner has disclaimed liability for damage to the contents of your unit. I'd be quite surprised if you didn't assume the risks of loss from fire, flood, vermin, weather extremes, and just about everything. Mini-storage operators are VERY careful not to become their renters' insurers. You probably stand a better chance of recovering from the renter of the neighboring unit if you have any proof that his negligence caused the fire. The area of law would be "negligence."

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Answered on 11/11/08, 12:39 am


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