Q: Is it illegal to raise someone's rent price after they accept a quote, pay application fees, and a holding deposit?
Oftentimes these people find out a week before moving in or less and are forced to sign under duress. It particularly affects people moving from out of state and military members who have prescheduled moves.
A: It sounds highly illegal!
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A:
In California, once a rental agreement, whether oral or written, is established, the terms, including the rent amount, cannot be changed unless both parties agree to the modification. If a tenant has accepted a rental quote, paid application fees, and a holding deposit, this can be seen as entering into a preliminary agreement with the terms initially quoted.
Raising the rent after these steps, especially so close to the move-in date, could be considered a breach of this preliminary agreement. However, the specifics of the situation, including any written documentation, will be crucial in determining the legality of the rent increase.
It's also important to consider California's Tenant Protection Act, which sets rules for rent increases and tenant protections. If the rent increase seems to be done under duress or unfairly targets certain groups like military members, it may warrant further legal scrutiny. Affected tenants may seek legal advice or contact a local tenant's rights organization.
Each case's legality will depend on its specific circumstances and the existing agreements between the parties.
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