I was one of about 50 tenants in an apartment building that recently burned. (About half the occupants were renters and the other half owned condos.)
There was considerable fire damage to the upper floors, and water damage to the lower floors. Right after the fire the Fire Department allowed tenants in for 15 minutes to recover valuables, and we were told explicitly that this would not be our only opportunity to re-enter. I saw during that visit that many of my beongings certainly can be recovered.
The landlord (and perhaps his insurance company or building inspector?) are now dragging their feet about allowing re-entry for recoverty of belongings, and are making hints to suggest that everything is in fact a total loss and people may never be able to re-enter.
I know from personal observation that my belongings are not a total loss, and many other residents say the same.
I'm guessing "total loss" is a legal designation the landlord is seeking for insurance purposes, and it would be easier for him if he just didn't let anyone back in. But of course these rooms have the possessions of our whole lives, and we are not in any way willing to relinquish them.
I suppose I have two questions:
(1) Can anyone point me to the relevant sections of Mass. law regarding the rights to tenants to recover personal possessions after a fire, when their access to the building is being denied (by vague authorities).
(2) Can anyone provide the names of an attorney or attorneys in north Worcester country who might be experienced in representing tenants in a case like this?
Many thanks indeed. Our treasured belongings are there within our sight, and we can't get in to save them.