I am renting a bedroom in my landlords home. He told me a few months ago that the foundation was sinking, and that the insurance company will only repair it if it has already crumbled to the ground. He said he was going to wait and let them pay for it, when it does fall. Now, aside from the absolute absurdity of his reaction, I have a situation on my hands.
He is out of town for Christmas and will return the 26th. The foundation has about a foot-long crooked crack in the beam that runs about 2 feet from the front of the house. I have heard about 3 sounds over the past 2 hours that sounds like the door is opening, but I think it's the foundation.
I know my landlord will just say *oh well, I'll deal with it when I get home*, but I'm concerned the foundation may fall before then. Should I be vacating? I don't have $ for a hotel or anything. Please let me know if you have experience or knowledge in this type of situation!
Thanks....
we don't have a written lease
2007-12-24 01:01:52 · 5 answers · asked by belle 5 in Home & Garden ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
Please don't panic. I've seen this before. First thing to do is address the area inside where the foundation is failing. Look at the floor, wall and the ceiling to see if you see any cracks or gaps. Next, go outside and look directly above the area in question to see if there is any damage in the wall itself or the leading edge of the roof. If you see notable damage then I would conider relocating for a couple of days and ask the landlord for recompense. Old houses weren't built like they are today, many can take a nuclear blast and still remain standing. Balloon structure walls are inherently strong and can take quite an offset load without failing. Keep an eye on the interior and exterior walls and if nothing develops you will be fine.
2007-12-24 04:09:23 · answer #1 · answered by Jeff S 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I do not have any experience in this area, but....In case no one else answers this question, it's better to be safe than sorry! I would definitely call the landlord to see what he says. In the meantime, go to family or friends house to stay through the holidays. If nothing else, go hang out in a mall, store or somewhere instead of sitting in that house. I'd also look for another place to rent. As soon as it "breaks", you're out of a home anyways!
On a sidenote: Your landlord probably doesn't have the extra money lying around for major repairs, and sadly enough, that usually IS the only way to get the insurance companies to pay for ANYTHING. However, I'm concerned that he would rent out a part of his home knowing that the foundation is going.
2007-12-24 01:50:47 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
You should consider getting renters insurance. Just in case the house comes tumbling down and damages your belongings with it. Speak to a real estate lawyer, you may be entitled to any lodging fees if your landlord can't keep a roof over your head.
2007-12-24 01:56:44 · answer #3 · answered by souldoubt 4 · 2⤊ 0⤋
That is stupid and careless! And yes, you should vacate if you can find a place!
Your landlord should have called in a contractor and wrangled with the 'insurance' company some more. As it is, he's going to have a wrecked house.
Good luck, Honey.
2007-12-24 02:18:49 · answer #4 · answered by Tigger 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
thats bad. you will need to knock down the house and rebuilt.
2007-12-24 01:05:34 · answer #5 · answered by Cary C 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋