Q: I stay in a home where no lease was established but verbal agreement was. I stay rent free in return for providing care.
Since I don't pay rent can the landlord just throw me out? What are my rights s a person providing assistance (everyday ADLs for disabled elderly woman, maintaining entire homes cleanliness, and preparing/cooking all meals etc) in exchange for no monthly rent?
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- California
- (916) 704-3009
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- Answered
A:
Under California law, even if you do not pay rent, you have certain rights as a tenant due to the verbal agreement and the services you provide in exchange for housing. This arrangement can be considered a form of tenancy, which means the landlord cannot simply throw you out without following proper legal procedures.
Typically, the landlord must give you a written notice to terminate the tenancy. The notice period usually depends on how long you have lived there; for instance, if you have lived in the home for a year or more, you are generally entitled to a 60-day notice. If the landlord does not follow this procedure, you may have grounds to challenge the eviction.
Additionally, given your role in providing care and maintaining the household, you might be viewed as an essential part of the living situation, further strengthening your position. If the landlord attempts to evict you improperly, you can seek assistance from tenant rights organizations or legal aid services to protect your rights and ensure due process is followed.
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