Repairs to Rental Property Disputes in Burbank

Everyone wants to feel safe and comfortable in their home, which can be difficult when certain conditions require repair.

In a rental unit, the landlord is responsible for many repairs, but the tenant may be responsible for others. Sometimes, there is disagreement about who is at fault for a condition and who must repair it.

One of our hardworking landlord and tenant attorneys could be a valuable ally when you are involved in repairs to rental property disputes in Burbank. We could help you understand your rights and obligations achieve your repair goals.

The Landlord is Responsible for Conditions Affecting Habitability

Whether there is a written lease or not, every landlord must provide habitable premises, meaning a safe place to live in. If a in the unit makes or could make it unhabitable, the Burbank landlord must repair it, otherwise causing a conflict with their tenant over rental property.

The law specifies what makes a place habitable. California Civil Code §1941.1 describes the requirements for habitability, which include:

• Electricity
• Intact windows
• Adequate heating
• Hot and cold running water
• Doors with waterproof roof and exterior walls

Other conditions, like rodent infestations or mold, could also affect habitability.

In most cases, the landlord must fix any condition that impairs habitability and maintain the premises to ensure it remains fit for occupancy. However, when the tenant created the condition, the tenant bears responsibility.  For example, although the landlord would be responsible for a broken window in most circumstances, the tenant is responsible if they broke it.

Lease Determines Responsible Party for Other Repairs in Most Cases

Tenants are typically responsible for keeping the premises clean, disposing of garbage and refuse properly, and using appliances and other fixtures safely. As noted above, the tenant is also responsible for fixing things they damaged.

Otherwise, the lease usually describes who is responsible for repairs. When the landlord is responsible, the tenant must notify them of the problem and allow them adequate time to respond. A Burbank resident unsure of their reparation responsibilities under a specific lease and wants to prevent a rental property dispute should consult a local attorney.

Resolving Disputes Over Repairs

Landlords who believe tenants are damaging the property or creating a hazardous condition can sometimes terminate the lease and evict the tenant. Depending on how long the tenant has lived in the property, the landlord may have to give them 30 or 60 day’s notice. They also must give the tenant the opportunity to comply with the lease.

Tenants who are frustrated with a landlord’s unwillingness to carry out necessary repairs promptly have some options. They could complete the repairs themselves and deduct the cost from their rent or withhold rent until repairs are complete, which is sometimes legally justifiable. However, these options are only available in specific circumstances, so a tenant should consult a Burbank attorney for advice on how to settle a dispute over fixing rental property.

Mediation or negotiation between each side’s legal representatives can often resolve landlord-tenant disagreements about repairs. These strategies are often less stressful and less expensive than taking a dispute to court.

Consult a Burbank Attorney About Rental Property Repair Disputes

Disputes about who is responsible for unsafe conditions in a rental unit can get heated. The best strategy is to know your rights.

Discuss repairs to rental property disputes in Burbank with a local landlord tenant attorney. We could ensure your rights are protected and help you resolve the issue. Call today.