Q: Was my landlord obligated to tell me the well water is contaminated with trichloroethylene (TCE) before i moved in?

A: Under California law, landlords have a legal obligation to disclose certain material defects or hazards that may affect the habitability or safety of a rental property. Contaminated well water with known carcinogens, such as trichloroethylene (TCE), would likely constitute a material defect or hazard that must be disclosed to tenants before they move in. Failure to disclose such information may constitute a violation of California's landlord-tenant laws and could expose the landlord to legal liability.

As a tenant, you have the right to expect full and accurate disclosure of any potential health or safety hazards associated with the rental property, including water contamination issues. If your landlord failed to disclose the presence of TCE in the well water before you moved in, you may have grounds to take legal action against them for breach of duty to disclose. You may consider consulting with a qualified attorney who specializes in landlord-tenant law to explore your options and determine the best course of action.

In addition to seeking legal recourse, you should also take steps to protect yourself and your family from exposure to contaminated water. This may include using alternative sources of drinking water, such as bottled water or water from a safe and reliable municipal source, until the contamination issue is resolved. It's important to prioritize your health and safety while addressing the legal aspects of the situation with your landlord.