Drive by shooting at rental property

[Keegan Darby]

Got a call from a tenant this morning that there was a drive by shooting at one of our rental properties.

About 40 bullet holes sprayed all across the house, tons of damage to the interior area well (cabinets, doors, shattered windows, etc.). 

Thankfully everyone in the home is OK. A police report has been filed and investigation is under way. 

As the landlord and property owner what would be your next steps? Who is responsible for the damages (likely $8k+ in damages)? 

Thank you for any and all help. 

[Scott Mac]

$8000 in damage from 40 bullets, that $200 per bullet hole.

You could turn off all faucets inside the house, and see if the water meter is spinning, if so a pipe may have been nicked by a bullet--find the leak it will be near a bullet hole--and have it fixed.

If you have a ceiling hole you will probably have a roof leak to patch.

You also might want to make sure every outlet and every light works--a wire may have been cut...look backward into the holes for nicked wires--have any problems fixed.

Holes on the exterior can be fixed with spray foam insulation, and then primed and painted to match.

Interior Spackle and wood filler, then prime and paint.

Replace the glass first so the place (feels) closed in and safe for the renters.

I would not get involved in the drama, just fix it up and ask what happened and leave it at that--and collect the rent.

It's not always drugs, it could be vigilantism--by those who cannot use Law Enforcement--or somebody staying there received a (very strong) warning to not do X or date Ms. XYZ..or etc...its not always drugs.

Good Luck!