In California, landlords are responsible for following state and city housing regulations. Knowing these laws may help renters understand their rights in case of disputes.
As a tenant, you have the right to live in habitable housing conditions. Moreover, you may take legal action against your landlord if they fail to maintain a safe and healthy living environment.
Tenant rights to a habitable living environment
If you discover health or safety concerns in your home, you may ask your lessor to make the necessary repairs. You can report these issues and even submit a written complaint about the hazardous living conditions.
If you want proof of the dangers in your home, you can take pictures or record videos for documentation. Correspondence between you and your landlord may even serve as proof.
If you report an issue but the property owner does not address it, you may contact the appropriate local code enforcement or health agency. In California, cities and counties have different programs and boards that handle building health and safety.
Unfortunately, some landlords neglect their responsibility to provide a safe and habitable environment. Some even try to evict tenants who complain about problems within the property.
You may talk to a lawyer if you are evicted after complaining about a safety hazard in your home. An attorney can help determine whether your eviction is unlawful and establish a case against your landlord.
Know your rights as a tenant
It Is the lessor’s responsibility to keep their property safe and well-maintained. Their duties include providing working plumbing and electrical equipment, effective waterproofing and lockable windows and doors.
If your landlord fails to provide a healthy and secure living environment, you have the right as a tenant to request repairs and write complaints.