Common Habitability Issues in Rental Properties in Los Angeles

Landlords in California are legally obligated to provide a safe and habitable dwelling for their tenants. When the home you rent threatens your health or safety, your landlord has a responsibility to complete requested repairs. Unfortunately, you cannot simply stop paying rent without facing eviction risks. However, you can document unsafe conditions and your landlord’s behavior to seek legal remedy with the help of a skilled habitability attorney.

These are some of the most common habitability issues in rental properties in Los Angeles that drive tenants to take legal action. If you are unsure whether your landlord is in compliance, reach out to CD Law today.

Severe Mold and Water Damage

Water damage caused by faulty plumbing or leaks can lead to hazardous mold growth. Exposure to mold can lead to health concerns and respiratory issues. Ongoing water damage can diminish the building’s structural integrity, leading to injuries.

Infestation

Infestations of roaches, bedbugs, or rodents create an unsanitary environment for occupants. Insects may bite or get into food products, leading to health issues. Bugs and rodents also contaminate surfaces with fecal matter. A landlord’s failure to fumigate or conduct pest control to keep infestations under control violates tenants’ rights to live in a home that does not threaten their health and is unfortunately a common issue in Los Angeles rental properties.

Structural Issues

Any issue that interrupts functioning systems or exposes occupants to environmental dangers can make a home uninhabitable. For example, a lack of functional plumbing, heating, electrical, or other utilities in an L.A rental property is a habitability violation. Issues like roof or home exterior damage that allows outdoor elements to affect tenants while indoors also make a home uninhabitable.

Negligence Related Injuries

Ongoing neglect that leads to damage inside or around the home can lead to falls or injuries that require medical care. Tenants can face costly medical bills and income loss related to missed work due to illness and injuries caused by landlord neglect.

Unsanitary Conditions

Landlords are required to supply provisions to keep a dwelling clean and sanitary. This includes ensuring bathrooms (including sinks, toilets, showers, and tubs) and kitchen sinks are functional. It also requires landlords to provide adequate receptacles for garbage and rubbish. When any such habitability issues exist in your Los Angeles rental, it is essential to share concerns with the landlord and document the existing violations.

Contact a Los Angeles Attorney to Protect Your Renter’s Rights

While these are some of the most common habitability issues in rental properties in Los Angeles, it is not an exhaustive list. A building is considered uninhabitable if it risks the health and safety of the occupants living there. When issues arise, tenants should inform their landlord and request the necessary repairs.

If your landlord ignores requests for repairs of damages that make your home unsafe, you have the right to take legal action. You can learn about your legal options and whether your landlord owes you financial compensation. Contact CD Law today to schedule your free and confidential consultation.