Q: Landlord refusing to provide copy of lease
I live in California. I have been repeatedly asking my landlord for a copy of my lease agreement, but they are ignoring my messages, emails, and calls. Is this legal? And what can I do if it is not?
A:
In California, landlords are required by law to provide tenants with a copy of their lease agreement upon request. This ensures that you have all the necessary information regarding your rights and responsibilities as a tenant. Ignoring your requests for a copy of the lease can be seen as a violation of this legal obligation.
You should document all your attempts to contact the landlord, including messages, emails, and call logs. This evidence will be useful if you need to take further action. Start by sending a formal written request for the lease agreement via certified mail, which provides proof of your request and that it was received by the landlord.
If the landlord continues to ignore your requests, you may contact your local housing authority or seek assistance from a legal aid organization. They can help you understand your rights and provide guidance on how to proceed. Taking these steps can ensure that your landlord complies with their legal duties and provides you with the necessary documentation.
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