Hello again. Been a while since I've been on (long story - lost my full time job)...

Situation: Relatively new tenant from a far away location originally is storing washing machine, dryer and other stuff. They found water and are now blaming my facility. My clerk investigated and she swears it must be their washer. The tenant gets real defensive when we say the washer is the problem.

I'm heading there tomorrow and the tenant agreed to let me in to investigate. The problem happened over the weekend, and even if I had a super leaky roof (which I don't) the temperatures were way below freezing. I plan on taking pictures, possibly even video taping the unit and taking samples of the "water" - my clerk said there was a residue - looked like the detergent.

How else should I handle this situation. How do I handle a tenant who is hell bent on blaming everyone but himself??

THANKS!

Listen, empathize and point out the obvious source of the damage if it the washing machine. Otherwise, listen, empathize and take corrective action. Most leases point out that the tenant assumes all responsibility for their own property but if it is your facilities fault a monetary gesture of good faith goes a long way. Don't forget to get a signed release though.

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The mountains are calling, so I must go.

More than likely there was residual water in the hose and when they moved it, no one thought about that. As Ralph stated, if it's their fault point to your lease and that you are not responsible (hopefully) or if it is negligence on your part, a check for a couple hundred or so depending BUT with a release of liability signed by them before you hand over any funds. Yes, take copious amounts of photos and video is great too.

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Gina 6k
CochraneStorage dot com
Morgan Hill, California
You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough!

I have had a few say they had water damage. Not only did I look at their unit but I contacted the customers who have adjoining units and asked to inspect their units, just to make sure there was not a problem with the other units. After inspecting and finding no one else had any problems they dropped their complaint.