Tenant seeking compensation for an injury in her apartment

[Ryan Judah]

Hey BP Community - 

I prayed this day would never come, but I knew it probably would if I continued to grow my portfolio. This post is to get as much guidance on the next steps as possible so I am prepared to protect, defend, and win. 

So here is a brief overview of the situation: 

- Our property manager signed a lease 3/22/22

- On 9/2 the tenants rent was late, no communication from the tenant as to why. This was the first time she has paid late.

- On 9/12 we were notified by our landlord that the tenant put in a work order (9/5) to notify us she fell and broker her cheek bone and leg on the transition strip in her unit. Our PM immediately (on 9/5) dispatched maintenance to assess any needed repair but couldn't reach the tenant because she was supposedly in the hospital.

- On 9/12 our PM was able to speak with the tenant and she shared photos of the transition that needs repair. Our PM communicated to her that they would schedule it ASAP. She then communicated that she will be unable to make her rent payment as she is waiting for state funded assistance due to an inability to work.

I will mention we have a very detailed move in report with descriptions of the flooring condition (new) as well as photos. Prior to the incident that happened on 9/5, we have not received a work order from the tenant related to the floors once.

Looking for your guidance here BP community on the next steps we should be taking. Thank you in advance for any and all thoughts, guidance, advice you can offer!