Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in New York

fire damage

I had a fire in Sept. and lost everything I own. the fire was caused by a faulty fan in the bathroom. I had written my landlord a letter and verbally told her many times about the electrical problems in my apartment, and she never did anything about it. I did have renters insurance but it only covered less than half of the things I lost-can I sue the landlord for negligence? after all, she was aware of the electrical problems. Also. she never even put fire detectors in my apartment!!


Asked on 3/21/08, 11:56 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys

Michael Markowitz Michael A. Markowitz, PC

Re: fire damage

Yes, I think you would have a good case against the landlord. You MUST inventory all items lost from the fire. Retain all records (even what was given by the insurance company).

Feel free to contact my office to review.

Mike

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Answered on 3/22/08, 1:29 pm
Debra Palazzo Law Offices of Debra Palazzo, LLC

Re: fire damage

If the landlord had notice of a dangerous condition in your apartment and did nothing, he can be found liable for your loss.

Also smoke detectors are required by law.

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Answered on 3/22/08, 10:41 pm
Steven Czik CZIK LAW PLLC

Re: fire damage

There could definitely be substantial liability on the part if the landlord. If the facts are as stated you would definitely have a case against landlord. We have substantial experience handling these types of cases, however, we would need some more information before making a complete and proper determination. You are welcome to contact us for a free consultation.

Law Offices of

STEVEN J. CZIK, P.C.

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New York, New York 10013

212.413.4462

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The information provided by The Law Offices of Steven J. Czik (LOSJC) is for general educational purposes only. There is no attorney-client relationship established by this communication and no privilege attaches to such communication. LOSJC is not taking and will not take any action on your behalf and will not be considered your attorney until both you and LOSJC have signed a written retainer agreement. There are strict deadlines, called statutes of limitation, within which claims or lawsuits must be filed. Therefore, if you desire the services of an attorney and decide not to retain LOSJC on terms acceptable to LOSJC, you are advised to immediately seek the services of another attorney.

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Answered on 3/24/08, 3:48 pm


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