Tenant Safety

There are numerous disclosures and forms that tenants are generally required to sign when entering into a rental agreement; one which has now become common is a Safety Addendum. 

The first statement on the form published by The Metro Multifamily Housing Association reads: 

“WARNING!! Many areas of the property may pose dangers to unattended children who may not be aware of the risks.”

The form (click here to read it) addresses safety issues commonly associated with 9 areas:

·         Windows

·         Use of appliances

·         Parking lots

·         Dumpsters and Trash compactors

·         Exercise equipment

·         Swimming pools, Spas and Saunas

·         Water

·         Balconies, Decks, Second story walkways

·         Play areas

It doesn’t take a lot of imagination to contemplate what could go wrong and cause serious injury or death when reading this list. However, it’s not unusual for people to scoff a bit and say “Duh” while reading and signing this form, as if  “anyone knows you can drown, fall or get hit by a car”. D-U-H.

Yet, every week there are "Breaking News Stories" in the media of horrific accidents that occur while at home involving these issues. A recent tragedy in SE Portland was reported when a small child fell out of a 3^rd floor window as his caretaker had stepped out of the room. The TV story made a point of showing how the window screen was not even bent after the child had pushed on it before the accident, demonstrating just how little protection lay between safety and tragedy.

In truth, these are very difficult subjects to think about and discuss. Yet, like any emergency preparedness, with a little forethought individuals can do a great deal to prevent the unthinkable from happening. A recent article in The Oregonian gives tips on securing windows and is well worth the read. 

Take a moment to learn more and read this valuable article by clicking here.