Q: As a renter in California do I have the right to ask for hot water and pressure in my apt from the landlords?
It's an old 4 unit building with old pipes and a very small water heater for about 12 people in all. I have lived here 4 years. We are not allowed dishwashers or washing machines but I know the unit downstairs from me has both. They run them seemingly 24 hrs a day. I've complained many times, work orders for a new larger water heater have been submitted, no worker has ever come to my unit, and no change has occured.
A: Per Cal. Civil Code 1941.1 and 1941.3 as well as sections of the Cal. Health & Safety Code, a residential unit in California must have properly working utilities in order to comply with the "habitability requirements" of the law. What that means to a tenant is that, if your apartment lacks properly working plumbing, AND YOU REPORT IT TO THE LANDLORD WITH ADEQUATE TIME TO CORRECT, the tenant may be entitled to a full or partial rent reduction. You must file a claim with the court, usually Small Claims (up to $10,000) for breach of the warranty of habitability.
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A: As a renter in California, you generally have the right to expect hot water and reasonable water pressure in your apartment. If you're experiencing issues due to an old building with limited capacity, it's important to communicate your concerns to your landlord in writing and keep a record of your complaints. If the landlord fails to address the problem, you may consider reaching out to your local housing authority or seeking legal advice for further assistance.
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