plumber broke tenants chair!

[scottsiemers]

I am the owner of a flat where a plumber visited to fix a boiler. He sat in a chair owned by the tenant and broke it! It is a valuable chair and will be costly to fix or replace. The tenant's insurance does not cover this. Is there any financial risk to me as the landlord?? The plumber said that he is not liable for anything! I would welcome advise from anyone who is clear about the legal position of all parties in this situation. Thanks.

[Gazza]

Hi there

As a landlord you are not technically responsible for your tenants contents other than damage caused by perils covered under your policy. If he had the correct insurance he should have if possible, accidental damage cover which would have covered this. Alternatively the plumber should have his own liability insurance. He has broken a chair which was not a requirement of the job and he could therefore be liable for the damage.

How much was the chair worth as it may exceed the policy excess of any of the policies and therefore not be worth claiming for.

Gazza