Story Published: Dec 20, 2006 at 4:53 PM PST

Story Updated: Dec 21, 2006 at 3:34 PM PST
By Herb Weisbaum Listen
Watch the video SEATTLE - A lot of homeowners are still dealing with storm-related damage, but a lot of renters are in the same boat and they may need to rely on their landlord for help.

That's the case with Kristin. Her apartment was flooded during the storm.

"It was completely soaked," she said. "And there was about, in this area back here about like an inch and a half, two inches of water, just sitting on top of the carpet." There's now some black mold on the walls.

Kristin says her landlord gave her a ShopVac and told her that the water was hers to fix.

I contacted Kristin's landlord, who told me she's sorry about what happened and that she will try to make proper repairs. I'm not exactly certain what happened in this case, but I am sure this is not an isolated situation. So I want all renters to know what state law says your landlord must do for you.

Here are the time frames for repairs: With most problems, the landlord has 10 days to deal with the problems. That drops to just three days if you're without plumbing.

And the landlord has just 24 hours to correct a health hazard, such as no water, no heat or no electricity.

I told Kristin to contact the Tenants Union of Washington State. They're a great resource. They can help you learn about your rights, and what to do if your landlord is not living up to his legal responsibilities.

You can find more information at http://www.tenantsunion.org

The law is very clear on situations like this: YOU are responsible for any damage to your stuff, that's why you get renter's insurance.

The landlord is basically responsible for everything else.

Keep in mind - you need to notify your landlord about the damage and need for repairs in writing "Even if you've contacted the landlord verbally," Ring says, "the law requires that you put that request in writing." Be sure to sign and date that letter and keep a copy for yourself, Ring advises.

According to Siobhan Ring, Executive Director of the Tenants Union of Washington, "The landlord must maintain the entire unit, keeping it safe, healthy and up to code." And the law gives them specific time frames for making the fix.