Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Illinois

Rental Property - Flooding

A storm flooded the basement of my rental unit (condo) in a 11 unit building. Common areas were also flooded. The main sewage line to the building backed up and became obstructed. The association contacted a plumber to rectify the blockage.

1. Who is responsible for the damages to the tenant's personal belongings?

2. Who is responsible for cleaning & costs for cleaning in the rental unit?

In each case is it the unit owner, tenant, condo association, or municipality?

Thanks


Asked on 6/27/07, 10:50 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
Noelle Ansley Noelle Ansley

Re: Rental Property - Flooding

I take it you're in Ravenswood? I saw it on the news.

With respect to your personal possessions, you should have renter's insurance to cover such things. This was not caused by the landlord, so it can't be pinned on them. The unit owner will have to take care of the damage to the unit (like if it needs new drywall/flooring, or even a mold abatement) but with respect to your stuff, you are responsible for that.

The flooding was due to a freak storm, which qualifies as an act of nature and therefore there is not a lot you can do about it with respect to going after the city or the condo association.

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Answered on 6/27/07, 11:40 am
Charles Dobra Charles Wm. Dobra, Ltd.

Re: Rental Property - Flooding

This is why attorneys advise their clients to purchase an insurance policy for the contents of condos. Hopefully, you have one of these, and you should make a claim on your policy for the damages incurred.

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Answered on 6/27/07, 12:34 pm


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