Water Leak: Who Is Responsible for What

[Chad Armond]

A recent storm caused some inside damage to my rental property.  The root cause is a leak in the roof.  I know that I am responsible for the roof.  As far as damage inside to furniture and such, is that my responsibility too or is that the tenants?  I assume that's what renters insurance is for but I'm not sure where the line is drawn. Any advice?  Thanks.

[Greg Scott]

Unless your lease specifies otherwise, you or your insurance are responsible for the building.  Your resident's renter insurance should cover their items.  

Now, if they could show you knew the roof was bad and leaky, they have a case for saying it was your negligence.  Otherwise, it is a pretty cut & dry split (pun intended).