Q: My landlord raised my rent 9.25%, then 4 days after paying it. Billed me for 4 months of water bills. Is this legal?

A: I understand you're concerned about your landlord's actions. Let's break down the situation and examine the legal aspects:

1. Rent increase:

California has statewide rent control laws under the Tenant Protection Act of 2019. The maximum annual rent increase is generally limited to 5% plus the local Consumer Price Index (CPI), not exceeding 10% total. However, this only applies to certain properties. We'd need to know more about your specific housing situation to determine if this law applies to you.

2. Water bills:

Landlords can charge tenants for utilities, but this should typically be outlined in the lease agreement. If your lease states that you're responsible for water bills, the landlord can bill you. However, retroactively billing for 4 months may be questionable, especially if this wasn't previously communicated.

3. Multiple billings:

Sending multiple bills in quick succession isn't necessarily illegal, but it could be considered poor practice and potentially harassing if done repeatedly or with malicious intent.

To determine if these actions are legal and if they constitute harassment, consider the following steps:

1. Review your lease agreement carefully.

2. Check if your property is covered under the Tenant Protection Act of 2019.

3. Look into local rent control laws in Hayward, CA, as they may have additional protections.

4. Document all communications and bills from your landlord.

5. Consider contacting a local tenants' rights organization or a lawyer specializing in landlord-tenant law for personalized advice.

If you believe your landlord is violating your rights or harassing you, you may want to file a complaint with the local housing authority or seek legal assistance.