If you are a renter in the San Francisco area, then you need to understand the San Francisco landlord tenant law that covers you and your landlord. If either the tenant or the landlord has a legal problem a lawyer may be necessary to resolve the issue.
Some of the topics covered under the law include evictions, repairs, breaking a lease, security deposit handling, sanitary conditions, sale of the building being rented, building inspections, rent issues, problems with landlord, landlord entry into home, etc.
When to a San Francisco Landlord Tenant Law Specialist
If you think that your rights are being violated as a tenant, or owner, it may be time to speak to a lawyer. A skilled legal professional can discuss your situation and determine whether you have a case. There are many specialties of the law and it is best to turn to one with experience in tenant law specifically to help best resolve the situation.
For instance, according to California state law and the San Francisco landlord tenant law, you have a right to be able to live in a place that is safe and sanitary. Plus, certain situations make your home substandard and therefore unsafe to live in, including inadequate heat, broken windows or doors, bathrooms considered unsanitary, faulty weather protection, along with situations such as infestation by rodents or other vermin, structural issues, no hot or cold water, faulty plumbing, no regular maintenance, unsanitary conditions, unsafe electricity, no ventilation or natural light, lack of proper trash receptacles, and the floor, stairs or railings are unsafe.
Eviction is a Big Issue for Landlords and Tenants
Another item addressed in the San Francisco landlord tenant law is eviction. If you are facing eviction, a legal professional can give you the proper advice to address your situation.
There are several legal reasons a landlord can evict a tenant. These include not paying rent, breaking the lease, using the property for something illegal, being a nuisance, as well as owner move in, conversion to condominiums, unit is to be demolished, and a few others. If your eviction isn’t covered by one of these reasons, you may have a case to fight it.
Security Deposits Fall Under Specific Rules
Another topic covered under San Francisco landlord tenant law is security deposits. A Security Deposit is money a landlord holds to use in case a tenant damages something. By law, it can’t be more than two month’s rent if the apartment is unfurnished and three month’s rent for furnished.
The law can be complicated, and a dispute between a tenant and landlord can be scary. But it is important to keep calm and get help from a lawyer if you think you need help.
