I am not certain of all the details here but think these folks may have a good case. Since when is the property owner responsible for the illegal actions of a tenant? Tort liability possibly but to be financially responsible for the tenants bills I think not.
What this article fails to mention, what I read yesterday, is that the electricity was still in the homeowner’s name. Not sure why they didn’t require the tenant to get the bill in his name. Could they still be liable based on that? And, why would they cut off power to a different residence than the one in question?
It is up to the lease. If it says the tenant is responsible for the power, then they are going to win. If not, or if this was done on a handshake, then it is up to the landlord to pay. $140,000 is a lot of pot plants.
I am not certain of all the details here but think these folks may have a good case. Since when is the property owner responsible for the illegal actions of a tenant? Tort liability possibly but to be financially responsible for the tenants bills I think not.
What this article fails to mention, what I read yesterday, is that the electricity was still in the homeowner’s name. Not sure why they didn’t require the tenant to get the bill in his name. Could they still be liable based on that? And, why would they cut off power to a different residence than the one in question?
It is up to the lease. If it says the tenant is responsible for the power, then they are going to win. If not, or if this was done on a handshake, then it is up to the landlord to pay. $140,000 is a lot of pot plants.