Not so legal basement suite

[Rhonda2548]

We have a condo with a full basement suite to rent. The only problem is that the basement windows aren`t big enough in case of fire. We can`t find a trade that will be able to do it until Spring (there`s a surprise!).

We are renting the whole condo as one unit instead of upper and lower and have advised those interested that they would not be able to use the one bedroom in the basement as a bedroom until the windows have been corrected.

The last thing we want is for someone to be hurt because of those windows but are there any suggestions on how to prevent them from using that room? Will that be enough should a worst case scenario develop?

 

[samwei]

QUOTE (Cookie @ Dec 18 2007, 02:19 PM) The last thing we want is for someone to be hurt because of those windows but are there any suggestions on how to prevent them from using that room? Will that be enough should a worst case scenario develop?

You may not be able to stop them from using that room, but you absolutely need to protect yourself from liability, and I recommend that you include a disclosure clause in your lease regarding the window size, and an indemnity clause protecting you in the event they use it the room as a bedroom. Consult your lawyer as to the wording, and increase your insurance liability until the window size is made to conform.