Stockton, CA asked in Real Estate Law and Landlord - Tenant for California

Q: We share a well with a neighbor, our line is busted so we've been getting our water through a garden hose for 6 months .

Landlord WILL NOT respond to us. Who do I contact? Also water heater caught fire , we bought a new one and he got upset that it was too expensive and now we have to move by October 1st

2 Lawyer Answers
N. Munro Merrick
N. Munro Merrick
Answered
  • Del Mar, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: Water is considered a necessity, and you might even claim that you have an emergency. Have you asked your landlord to fix the water line? If yes, and it is more than a few days ago, you are entitled to get someone to fix it and pass along the charge to him by deducting from your rent. Just tell him what you are going to do and then do it. Apparently you did not ask him about the water heater. If he did not replace it immediately, the same course of action is available. Do you want to stay? If not, withhold rent and move out.

Manuel Alzamora Juarez
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Answered
  • Landlord Tenant Lawyer
  • Berkeley, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: Go to your city home inspector and demand that they come to your place to write up a report of the living conditions of your home. Also, write a letter to the landlord and keep a copy. Send it certified mail. If he does not fix the problem in 20 days call a lawyer. There are several violations of the warranty of habitability and you need to call a lawyer right away to get compensation for your damages. Best of luck.

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