I have a condo in social that was evacuated due to the thomas fire. Now the tenants are saying "everything smells like smoke and there is ash and the unit will need to be professionally cleaned, carpets etc. Before they can move back in."

They were wondering if the HOA was planning on doing something. But I think they are trying to get me to pay and if anything I think they would have to claim it with their renters insurance?

Fire/smoke clean up is a very expensive process. It may take much more than just a carpet cleaning. You may need to have a restoration service evaluate and give a more comprehensive opinion. Check with your insurance if they cover these costs.

My thoughts are that you are not responsible for any of your tenants possessions as these would be covered by their renters insurance. All other smoke damage would be your responsibility. So as Sid said , get in touch with your insurance company to arrange restoration service.

OK thanks. I did contact my insurance agent and they are sending someone out.

As others have stated renters insurance would only cover their belongings so you are responsible for everything else.

If a restoration company comes in your tenants may have to stay in a hotel while the work is being done. The cost of their lodging would have been covered by their renters insurance.

We require renters insurance but primarily because in NC some specific causes of water damage are not available in rental property coverage but they are covered by renters insurance where I am named additional interest. But after an experience earlier this year I have modified the policy. I require proof of insurance monthly. We also included a clause in our lease that if the tenant allows their policy to lapse or fails to provide proof of insurance we will purchase a policy and bill them for it.

In january one of my tenants had an argument with their insurance company and cancelled her auto and renters insurance. The very next day an adjacent townhome had a major water leak due to a frozen pipe which cause almost $10,000 in damages to my property. The place was uninhabitable for almost 2 weeks. That night the tenant tells me about her insurance policy. The tenant couldn't afford lodging and my attorney advised me that I needed to provide accommodations but that we could sue them for reimbursement.

Ask your agent for an accord application and have your next tenants fill it out with the lease.

I pay for the first year of insurance for my tenants as part of a move in incentive. That way I know I named as additional insured. That way when they pull an ESA scam on me I can tell them go ahead and get a pet dinosaur - they are allowed providing the insurance company says they are allowed.