Landlord liable?

[SarCaustic]

My student flat was burgled yesterday and over �1000 worth of my property was stolen. Unfortunately, I don't have insurance yet...my appointment with Barclays to switch bank account and to get a quote for insurance is for Saturday...

I've been living at the flat for just less than two weeks. At the time of moving in, I noticed that we hadn't been given any details on how to use the burglar alarm and alerted the estate agent, who said the matter would be deal with. However the landlord did nothing.

Moreover, I was only supplied with keys for the yale lock and not the mortice lock so I was unable to fully secure the door upon leaving the house yesterday.

Is the landlord liable in any way? What are my rights?

Thanks in advance, SarCaustic

[Velvetee]

As far as I am aware, it is not the Landlords responsibility to insure your personal property, only the buildings.

I suppose you could ask for compensation, as you did not have use of the alarm fitted or keys for the mortice lock. Your Estate agency should have guidelines for compensation if you have been unable to use something, not sure if it would cover locks or alarms.

Have a look at the following link, you may find some information there.

http://www.arla.co.uk/infosheets/list.aspx?id= 1#

If you are unsure, then you should contact your local CAB office.

[redcrx]

so without instructions for the alarm, a key for the mortice lock and an unsecured flat you still moved �1000 of property there?
Its been 2 weeks since you moved in, why werent you hounding the agent to find the alarm instructions so that you could then ensure you were secure before putting avluable items in.
Unfortunately you hadnt got your items insured, you cant blame others for something youd put off. Contents insurance is a must when moving into student accomodation as students often have PCs laptops, stereos, and high value goods, they are a good target for thieves, as youve discovered.

Perhaps you can get the landlord to cover any damage caused to his own property if he tries to charge you.

[moonshadow]

When my daughter was away at university she was covered by our home insurance policy under 'portable possessions', which can in some policies cover students in temporary accommodation. Why don't you check with your parents if it's written into their policy ?

[redcrx]

moonshadow has a good idea there. Its worth a try.