Who's responsible for cleanup after heater puffback?

[Colton Valentine]

HI all! Long time reader of this forum, and an avid listener of the podcast. Was hoping my first post would be about buying an investment property, but not there yet. Still saving my pennies for that. However, I have a question.

My family currently rents a single family home in North Wilmington DE. We have had a great relationship with the Landlord for the past 5 years, never really bothering him for anything. I think a dishwasher broke within the last 5 years, but that is it. There was an issue with our heater not working (it's oil heat). I guess the chimney was clogged? The landlord sent someone to fix it. While here, he kicked the heater back on, and I guess caused "puffback" where there is black soot covering most surfaces in the house. We were then without heat for a night. Luckily we have some space heaters.

The Landlord seems to not be willing to help with cleanup costs, citing that his homeowners insurance deductible is high. Our renters insurance will cover cleaning our personal items, but not the house. Is this something he should be paying for? I have an open mind, and would like some straight answers to learn from on both sides. 

Thanks in advance!