Q: Outdoor storage property sold w/out any notification from owners. Utilities off 3+ weeks. New owner refuses to turn on
I reside in my large motorhome at an outdoor construction equipment/big rig storage facility. The previous owners allowed me to work in lieu of paying rent. I was permitted to be continuously hooked up to electricity, water and sewer access. There is also another resident that lives on-site in a more permanent structure used specifically as rental for tenancy. There is a documented lease agreement between the previous owner and current tenant. There are also 2 companies that operate their businesses from this location. One rents a large shop building the other has mobile office units. Both had electrict & water. The owners sold the property without any prior notification to any of the tenants. They had all utilities turned off even the dumpster was removed. It has been almost a month without water or electricity. We are now paying rent to new owners. Can new owners refuse to hook up utilities??
A:
In California, the terms of existing leases and agreements generally transfer to new property owners, including provisions related to utilities. If there were agreements in place that provided for utilities access, the new owners may be obligated to uphold those agreements. Consult an attorney to review the lease agreements, assess the situation, and determine the best course of action to ensure your rights are protected under California law.
Sincerely,
James L. Arrasmith
Founding Attorney and Chief Lawyer of The Law Offices of James L. Arrasmith
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