If you are renting an apartment, you need to make sure that you know what your rights are in the case of a natural disaster or fire. Knowing how to proceed in these circumstances is very important legally.
Every state will have different rights and standards, and it is important that you know what the specific rights are where you live. It is important that you are prepared before anything happens, so that you can handle things calmly, correctly, and effectively.
If you are thinking about renting in a specific building, make sure that it is up to code in the case of a fire. Look for smoke alarms, fire escapes, and extinguishers in the hallways and in the apartment.
Make sure that the windows and doors are easy to open, but they have locks and deadbolts to keep out intruders as well. Check out the condition of the heating and cooling systems, hot water, and plumbing systems.
If something does not look or feel right to you, you need to make sure that it will either be taken care of, or that you move somewhere else. Your safety should be the priority for you and your family.
Make an emergency escape plan with your family, and practice it until everyone can do it comfortably and calmly. Always be aware of where fire extinguishers and smoke detectors are.
If you have a fire escape, make sure that it stays clear at all times. It is your right to have floor plans and evacuation procedures posted on every floor-make sure that this is provided for you before you move in.
Meet with your property owner to discuss the best escape plan for each room in your unit, and other areas in your apartment complex. If they do not know, this is probably a good indication that they are not so concerned with your safety.
Know at least two ways to get out of your apartment at all times, in case one is blocked off in an emergency. Pick a family meeting place outside the apartment building, so that you can all meet there if you are separated.
Make sure there is a number on your apartment door-if there is not, contact management for one. This is one of your rights as a renter.
Learn to recognize the sound of the fire, tornado, and general warning alarms, and leave the building immediately when you hear them. Ignoring them can cost you your life.
Look into renter’s insurance-sometimes it can save you thousands of dollars in the case of an emergency. While the property owner is responsible for damages and losses for the physical structure of your apartment, you are responsible for your personal belongings.
You may be able to purchase a policy for a simple ten to fifteen dollars a month, giving you protection and peace of mind.
Renter’s insurance may not cover all acts of nature. Most policies will cover storms and fires but they will not cover floods, general water damage, or earthquakes.
While rights vary in each situation and location, there are certain standard things that you should be aware of. If a disaster does occur, contact the Red Cross for help with immediate needs such as housing, food, and clothing.
Make sure you walk through your apartment before the property is turned over to the landlord. They are not required to recover your belongings, and they may be lost if you do not go in and recover them first.
If you are not insured, you will be financially responsible for replacing your belongings. If your resistance is deemed uninhabitable for a period of time, you may have the right to terminate your lease, cease payments, or even get a refund on rent money that has been paid.
Read carefully through your lease agreement in regards to this clause before you proceed with signing any papers. You may want to have a lawyer look over what you are signing before you become contractually bound in any way.
Consult your state’s and county’s legal codes for renter’s rights about habitability, payment, termination, and other legal issues. The more you know, the more you will be able to use it to your benefit in case of a disaster.
Terry Daniels assists in disaster recovery around the world and recommends (http://belfor.com/en/USA/Oregon/Springfield.aspx) for clean up, recovery, and restoration following a disaster.
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