Health and Safety Code Violations in Rentals in Bakersfield

Renters have a right to live in safe and habitable housing. Not being the property owner does not mean you have to accept substandard or dangerous housing conditions. State law requires landlords to maintain their properties so that they meet health and safety standards.

You may be entitled to compensation or other remedies for health and safety code violations in Bakersfield rentals if your landlord does not comply with the rules. Call CD Law to work with a dedicated habitability attorney today.

What Are Health and Safety Code Violations?

Health and safety laws exist to protect tenants from potential hazards, and it is the landlord’s responsibility to meet those standards. In Bakersfield, a health and safety code violation occurs when a rental property fails to meet these legal requirements.

Mold Issues

Mold is a common safety code violation in rental properties. Excessive moisture or water damage can lead to mold growth. Any type of mold can pose health risks, especially for individuals with allergies to a particular mold or asthma.

Pests

Pests are another common concern in rentals. However, they are still responsible for handling pests like rodents, cockroaches, or bedbugs.

Plumbing Problems

Plumbing problems can also lead to substantial risks. Leaks, broken pipes, lack of access to clean water or hot water, and sewage issues can all make a property uninhabitable. They can also increase the risk of mold growth in the home.

Electrical Hazards

Faulty electrical systems present serious dangers, including fire risks and the potential for electrocution or shock. Landlords must promptly address issues like exposed wiring and electrical malfunctions. Rental units must also have functioning smoke detectors to provide tenants with early fire warnings.

Structural Hazards

Structural hazards, such as broken stairs, damaged fences around swimming pools, or ceilings at risk of collapse, pose a significant threat to tenant safety. Unmaintained swimming pools or broken walls are similarly unsafe. Landlords are obligated to address these issues promptly, as tenants injured due to such hazards may be entitled to compensation or may seek legal action to compel repairs.

Addressing Health and Safety Violations

It is not unusual for Bakersfield tenants to experience some health or safety violations during their tenancy. The landlord’s response significantly affects whether the tenant has potential remedies. A landlord who responds to a complaint with a timely and effective solution generally avoids any penalties associated with common risks.

Tenants who want to protect their rights need to take several steps, including reporting issues to the landlord in writing and keeping a record of all communication. They should also document the violations, including photos, videos, and any inspection reports, as well as the landlord’s remedy attempts, particularly if they seem inadequate to solve the problem.

Tenants may get help from local authorities if needed. The Bakersfield or Kern County  Health Department or code enforcement agencies may inspect the property and issue citations or a violation report. While that may not be enough to get the landlord to remedy the problem, it can provide evidence for a tenant in a dispute.

Get Help With Rental Unit Health and Safety Code Violations in Bakersfield

As a tenant, you deserve a safe and healthy home. If your landlord is ignoring their responsibilities, an attorney from CD Law could help you explore potential options including compelling the landlord to make repairs, suing for damages, or breaking your lease. Schedule a consultation to learn more about health and safety code violations in rentals in Bakersfield.