Any legal professionals?

[daveycrocket]

I have several rental properties and had a tenant that had a small stove fire in one of the units. Just before she moved in in 2009 I had the whole unit remodeled with new appliances, carpet, paint, everything. The fire ruined the stove, over the range microwave and the two cabinets surrounding the microwave as well the window coverings needed replacement and the whole unit needed to be sealed and repainted. The tenant did not have insurance but I did. I've never made this type of claim. My insurance company has a local restoration company restoring the kitchen. The cabinets are being replaced but only the two damaged cabinets. They do not match the original cabinets and I'm displeased of their decision to say the least. The insurance adjuster is meeting me at the property to discuss the issue tomorrow. Anyone have any advice? My deal is they replace all the cabinets and send the previous tenant the bill. I have the feeling they'll say otherwise. The damage so far is just under 7k. If they replace all the cabinets it'll add another 4k to the bill. I only have to worry about my deductible.

I appreciate any input.

David

[daveycrocket]

"Yep. You are the insured, correct? So the policy is between you and the insurance company. Good luck trying to get your former tennants to pay a repair bill simply because you do not like what your insurer offered.

What you can do is ask your insurer if you can find a cabinent maker that can match the work instead of relying on one selected by them. Also, if you are only out your deductible, and they are not raising your premiums, get the insurance company to replace all of the cabinents. I'm sure you have enough coverage that would keep you from having to pay out of pocket."

Krimson X, Yes I am insured and have a low deductible. My coverage includes rent loss while repairs are made. I met with the adjuster and restoration company and they have removed three of the upper affected cabinets. They're taking them to a cabinet shop for repair but unsure of how their attempt will turn out. I don't want it to stick out like an eye sore so I'll deal with that when we get there. I took the liberty of going to a Lowes for a quote on all new cabinets, nothing at all high end, and the quote for material only was $3800 plus another $1500 for installation. I would expect the exact same foot print so I don't get into flooring issues.

The adjuster did approve everything else. So at this point all I'm waiting for is the cabinets to meet my approval.

Like I said the insurance is paying rent at this point so it's costing them money.

I have provided the insurance my previous tenants contact information and SSN as they requested. They'll go after her. Also my previous tenant is asking me when she'll know how much of her deposit she is receiving.

I better hire and an attorney! Sheesh!

Thanks for your input!

D