Who pays for damages after a burglary?
Question from Greg updated on 29th September 2009:
My rental property was recently burgled. The tenants did not have insurance. Who is liable to pay for the broken window?
Our expert Jeff Montgomery responded:
Tenants are liable for any damage they or their invited guests cause carelessly or intentionally. If the damage was not caused by the tenants or their invited guests, then it is usually the landlord’s responsibility to repair it.
In the case of a burglary, tenants should also report the incident to the police. To discuss your situation further, you can contact the Department of Building and Housing on 0800 TENANCY (0800 836 262).
The Department of Building and Housing provides information and guidance on building law and compliance, services including weathertight homes, and advice for tenants and landlords.
