Q: Can my landlord tow my car?
I moved to California from Texas and my Texas tags on my car have expired. My landlord sent me a text saying if I didn't clean my car, she would have it towed out of my spot because of my expired tags. I park my car in a gated garage/car port that I pay for. Can my landlord tow my car out of my spot for expired tags? I know she can't for not getting it clean but that's not what she would tell the tow company. Thanks
A: I can only guess the answer to this question, so here it goes: I think your landlord could have your car towed due to the expired tags. The best solution to this problem is to register your car in California as soon as possible, and avoid any towing issues. As to the car being dirty, you should probably wash it ASAP just to make your landlord happy. Maybe she will be less inclined to try to tow it away.
A:
Just to be clear, this is about two things. First, California requires anyone that resides in the state for 30 days or more to register their vehicle with the DMV. This is routinely ignored, but you should do it anyway.
Second, your landlord probably has a term in the rental agreement or lease that you reside in her property that you "shall obey all laws," or something like that. And, if you have assigned space for which you must identify the car that is to use the space, you are not obeying the law. In my view this landlord is being a bit overzealous if she thinks it is her job to require you to wash your car and have it registered.
Last, call the landlord up, and work it out with him/her. If you are going to be there a while, develop a relationship with her. Running off to seek legal advice at every conflict between you and her is not going to make your life more pleasant.
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