05 August

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Disabled Renters’ Rights in California: What Landlords Must Do (and Can’t Do)

in Legal Advice, Tenant Law, Tenant lawyers in California, United States

Woman in wheelchair filling out rental paperwork, representing disabled tenants’ rights and housing accessibility.

In California, FEHA gives disabled renters broader protections than federal law. Landlords must engage in a good‑faith interactive process, allow reasonable accommodations and modifications, can’t charge pet fees for assistance animals, and can’t retaliate if you assert your rights. Finding a place to live shouldn’t depend on whether someone has a disability. Yet many renters still face barriers that violate their legal rights. If you’re unsure what landlords can or can’t do—or when to involve a tenant lawyer—this guide will walk you through your options. The rights of disabled renters are protected under both federal and state laws that guarantee equal access,...

04 August

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How Landlords Check Your Rental History Before Approving You

Posted by eric_castelblanco

in Legal Advice, Tenant Law, Tenant lawyers in California, United States

Magnifying glass over house icon next to keys, representing landlord review of rental history before lease approval.

If you’re getting ready to apply for a new apartment, one of the first things a landlord may check is your rental history. Similar to a credit report, it helps them assess your reliability as a tenant. So, what exactly do landlords see, and how can you ensure your rental history works in your favor? In this guide, you'll learn what rental history reports include, how landlords check them, and what to do if you’re renting for the first time or if there are issues in your record. You’ll also get insights from the perspective of an experienced tenant lawyer, including...

01 August

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How to Tell If Your Landlord Is Retaliating Against You in California

Posted by eric_castelblanco

in Legal Advice, Tenant lawyers in California, United States

Tenant signing rental agreement while landlord or property manager holds house keys.

If your landlord suddenly raises the rent or ignores vital repairs, you might be experiencing illegal retaliation. California law protects tenants from these actions, giving renters the right to assert their legal protections without fear. This guide will help you recognize landlord retaliation, understand your rights, and take practical steps to protect your housing. If the situation escalates, speaking with a slumlord attorney may be the best way to hold your landlord accountable and safeguard your home. What Landlord Retaliation Means in California Landlord retaliation means a landlord takes negative steps after a tenant uses their legal rights. The protections exist to...

25 June

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How Much a Landlord Can Raise Rent Under California Rules

Posted by eric_castelblanco

in Tenant lawyers in California, United States

A man signing a rental agreement on a clipboard with apartment keys nearby, while two women stand in the background, suggesting a landlord-tenant interaction related to rent terms.

If you’re renting in California, you already know how stressful unexpected rent hikes can be. Under the Tenant Protection Act of 2019 (AB 1482), most landlords must limit annual increases to 5 percent plus regional CPI—and only once every 12 months. Yet, exemptions, varying notice rules, and local ordinances can complicate the picture. Whether you’re facing a surprise notice or weighing your options, guidance from established tenant lawyers can make all the difference. In the following text, we’ll explain statewide caps, calculate allowable hikes, cover notice requirements, highlight exempt properties, detail city-specific limits, and show you how to challenge unlawful increases....

19 June

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Your Rights if Your Building Is Sold or Foreclosed

Posted by eric_castelblanco

in Legal Advice, Tenant Law, Tenant lawyers in California, United States

how long can tenant stay in foreclosed property

When a landlord faces foreclosure, tenants are often left with more questions than answers. The situation can feel uncertain, but you're not powerless. Understanding your rights as a renter during foreclosure is essential — and in many cases, the law is on your side. In this guide, we’ll walk through what foreclosure means for tenants, what protections federal law provides, how long you can legally stay, and how to handle lease agreements, security deposits, and potential cash offers from new owners. If you're unsure about your situation, speaking with a tenant lawyer can provide clarity. And if your building is going...

30 May

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How to Report a Landlord in California – Step‑by‑Step Complaint Process & Tenant Rights

Posted by eric_castelblanco

in Legal Advice, Tenant Law, Tenant lawyers in California, United States

Person counting money at a desk with rental documents and house model, symbolizing tenant agreements and landlord transactions.

Not every rental experience goes as planned. Sometimes, it’s more than just a leaky faucet or a slow response—it’s serious neglect, unsafe conditions, or even illegal behavior. When that happens, tenants in California have more than frustration—they have rights. California is known for offering some of the strongest tenant protections in the country, making it important for tenants to understand how to navigate the complaint process effectively. Whether you're dealing with a landlord who won’t fix health hazards or facing harassment that crosses the line, there’s a process designed to protect you. And when things go too far, having a California...

30 May

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How to Break a Lease in California Without Penalty: Legal Reasons & Smart Strategies

Posted by eric_castelblanco

in Legal Advice, Tenant Law, Tenant lawyers in California, United States

Finding yourself needing to leave your rental before the lease is up can be stressful. Many tenants worry about significant financial penalties. The good news is that California law offers several legal protections for tenants, but the process depends heavily on the details of your lease and how you handle communication with your landlord. In some cases, having a slumlord attorney in your corner can make all the difference. This guide will walk you through how to break a lease in California without penalty, exploring your rights and options. Understanding Your Lease Agreement: The Starting Point Before taking any action, your first step...

30 May

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When Your Apartment Becomes Uninhabitable: Legal Steps to Take

Posted by eric_castelblanco

in Tenant Law, Tenant lawyers in California, United States

Living in a rental that feels unsafe or unhealthy is more than frustrating—it can affect your well-being. Not every issue makes a home legally uninhabitable, but serious problems like lack of heat, pest infestations, or structural hazards cross that line. Knowing your rights and the steps to protect yourself are crucial when your apartment becomes unlivable. This guide covers what qualifies as uninhabitable conditions, how to notify your landlord properly, and what legal options you have—including when to seek help from a slumlord attorney. Read on to learn how to handle these challenges and safeguard your living situation. Uninhabitable Conditions: What to...

05 May

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Common Examples of Landlord Harassment: Know Your Rights

Posted by eric_castelblanco

in Tenant Law, Tenant lawyers in California, United States

Landlord confronting tenants inside rental apartment, holding clipboard and pointing while couple listens.

If your landlord has crossed the line from firm to threatening, you're not alone—and you may have legal options. From illegal entry and ignored repairs to intimidation and tampering with utilities, certain behaviors go beyond poor management and enter the territory of landlord harassment. This guide breaks down what qualifies as harassment, what doesn’t, and how to respond if you’re being mistreated. Whether you're just starting to question your landlord’s behavior or you're actively dealing with repeated violations, understanding your rights is essential. And if things escalate, a slumlord lawyer can help protect your home and peace of mind. Keep...

05 May

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Can a Landlord Change the Locks Without Telling the Tenant

Posted by eric_castelblanco

in Tenant Law, Tenant lawyers in California, United States

Landlord holding house keys near front door, representing lock change scenario without tenant notification.

Getting locked out of your home by your landlord isn’t just frustrating—it might also be illegal. Whether you're dealing with a lease dispute, missed rent, or unclear communication, one question stands out: can a landlord legally change the locks without telling you? The answer isn’t simple and depends on your location, the terms of your lease, and the specific situation at hand. For tenants living under difficult conditions or facing aggressive tactics, having a slumlord lawyer in your corner can make all the difference.This guide explains when landlords can legally change the locks, your rights, and how to respond if...