Caltrans Denies ‘Uncooperative’ Owner Tag

In the May 10 “Apartment Life” column, the tenant of a South Pasadena home seeks advice on how best to seek restitution from an uncooperative landlord. The author claims the landlord, the California Department of Transportation, refuses to make good on $80,000 in damage to belongings caused by tar from a recent roofing job. I am compelled to supply some important facts that were omitted from the letter.

First, Caltrans conducted an investigation into this matter and, regrettably, discovered that a small amount of hot tar had splashed onto two interior walls of the home in question, causing minor damage. At that time, the tenant was asked to get an appraisal on the damaged items and submit the report to Caltrans for proper dispensation. This is routine procedure required of all those who make similar claims to the state. The tenant never submitted such a claim.

Shortly after our investigation, attempts were made to set up an appointment to have the walls scraped and painted, but the tenant refused to allow workers in the house. In addition, the letter states that the house has termites. But there is no mention of the tenant refusing to vacate the house for a day so exterminators could tent and spray chemicals to eradicate the pests.

Finally, the letter also states erroneously that the contractor who repaired the roof was not insured. Before any work is awarded by Caltrans, all contractors must have on file with our office Proof of Liability of at least $500,000.

JERRY B. BAXTER, Caltrans District 7 Director, Los Angeles