Sacramento, CA asked in Landlord - Tenant for California

Q: If we paid our rental couple days in advance. I paid with cash. Two days later they fired the manager and someone else

Else took over. They said we haven't paid our rent. We show him receipts and he still says he didn't get it so we owe it. Is that legal and if not what penal code supports it

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2 Lawyer Answers
Gerald Barry Dorfman
Gerald Barry Dorfman
Answered
  • Landlord Tenant Lawyer
  • Mill Valley, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: If you paid the rent to the owner's agent, it is now the owner's problem if the agent stole it. Unfortunately, if you get a 3 day notice, you will have to get prepared to fight an eviction. You should probably try to find a tenant's attorney now, because eviction proceedings move quickly. You might also look for a tenant's rights group in your area. Keep the rent receipt safe!

You asked about a penal code section. The penal code covers crimes, not civil matters like receipts for rent or the responsibility of principals for their agents.

James L. Arrasmith
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Answered
  • Landlord Tenant Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: Under California law, if you have valid receipts demonstrating that you paid your rent in advance, and the new management is disputing this without evidence to the contrary, it may not be legally justified. Landlords are typically required to provide a receipt for rent payments upon request. If the issue persists, consider discussing it with the new management or seeking legal advice to resolve the matter. There isn't a specific penal code provision for this situation; it's a matter of contract and landlord-tenant law.

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