Q: my landlord discussed my lease agreement with my neighbors and he’s also having the neighbors watch me. Is that legal
Furthermore, my landlord went on the state that one of my guests cannot come over any longer because that’s what the neighbors required of me, but it doesn’t say anything about that in the lease
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- California
- (916) 704-3009
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- Answered
A:
Your landlord's actions raise several privacy and legal concerns under California law. Discussing your lease details with neighbors violates your right to privacy, and having neighbors surveil you could potentially constitute harassment.
Unless your lease specifically includes restrictions on guests or gives the landlord authority to ban specific visitors, your landlord cannot prohibit guests from visiting you. Your right to quiet enjoyment of the property includes having visitors, and neighbors do not have the authority to dictate who can visit you. The only exceptions would be if your guest was engaging in illegal activities or causing legitimate disturbances.
You should document all instances of privacy violations and unauthorized surveillance, including dates, times, and specific details. Consider sending your landlord written notice (via certified mail) stating that these actions must stop. If the behavior continues, you may want to file complaint with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing or consult with tenant rights organization. For immediate assistance, contact the California Tenants Rights Hotline at 1-888-428-7615.
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