Marina, CA asked in Landlord - Tenant for California

Q: The owner of my house converted my garage into a studio for herself, can i with hold rent for her doing this? She also

is tapping into my electric and water. Do i have to pay her rent?

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1 Lawyer Answer
Maurice Mandel II
Maurice Mandel II
Answered
  • Landlord Tenant Lawyer
  • Newport Beach, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: Wow, there is so much wrong with this that I have a hard time figuring where to begin. The owner cannot just take back property that is part of your rental and live in it herself. Nor can she steal your electricity and water. What is this owner thinking? Before you do anything , take lots of photos of the garage, and her inside it. You should speak with a local Tenant's Rights attorney as soon as possible.

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