Do I need a tenant attorney?I was only told I was entitled to an abatement.my renters insurance only covers personal

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Hello, im hoping to receive guidance on a current tenant matter.I am currently renting a condo in which the ceiling fell in from a corroded hot water heater in an attic which broke a main water line.My living room,entrance,and dining room have been affected which resulted in me and my one year old staying in a hotel.Unfortunately,my realtor has not been quite helpful in informing me on what expense assistance I am entitled to and tends to avoid my calls.Not only am I having to pay rent at my hotel through my renters insurance, but I am also expected to pay for expenses for the condo that I am unable to live in. I am currently running low on money managing expenses at two locations and while also taking care of current medical needs for my son. is there anything that I can do?

Attorney Answers

3
Jonathan Klurfeld ·
First, the owner's insurance covers the ceiling. Renter's insurance only covers your belongings if they were damaged; and it seems your lodging. If the property is uninhabitable, then you may be able to break the lease and move. You may want to talk to the landlord and try to get out of the lease while they do repairs. If not, you should be able to send a 7 day notice meaning they have to completely repair in 7 days or you will break the lease and move. There is obviously no way to force the owner to make the repairs any faster though to stay.
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teven Nathan AinbinderInsurance Law LawyerBoca Raton, FL ·
I am sorry to read about your situation. The answers to your questions can be found in your lease, as well as Florida Statute Chapter 83. specifically Section 83.51. Google this section and it will pop up. As for your insurance company, they can provide you with some money at this time, if you present them with the proper paperwork. What is the turnaround time for the repair of your apartment? You may want to speak with a landlord/tenant attorney to provide you with specific advise. Good luck.
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Rima Bardawil ·
Whoever you are renting from has to give you their insurance information so that you can make a claim for your damages, including rent, and any injuries that may have resulted. Also, the landlord could potentially be liable if this was a problem that he had notice about and did not make the proper repairs, which resulted in the losses that you sustained. At the very least, the LL should not charge you rent when you are outside the apartment having it repaired. Regarding your renters insurance, it is important to read carefully what it does and does not cover. In Florida, if you have to sue your own insurance company, your attorney is entitled to be paid from the insurance company separate from your amount, if you prevail. I hope that you get this resolved soon, and that your son feels better.
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