Westlake Village Landlord and Tenant Dispute Lawyer

Landlord and tenant disputes are often highly contentious and overwhelming. While tenants must pay their rent on time each month, or as agreed, and adhere to the lease agreement, landlords must also ensure they meet their legal obligations.

When one party to the legal contract fails to uphold their duties, the other may have the right to pursue legal action and hold them financially responsible. Speak to a qualified Westlake Village landlord and tenant dispute lawyer for more information. One of our experienced personal injury attorneys could help you receive your deserved compensation.

Common Dispute Causes

Landlords have a legal responsibility and obligation to keep the property safe and make repairs as needed. Some of the typical landlord and tenant dispute causes include:

• Noise complaints
• Eviction proceedings
• Early lease termination
• Security deposit disputes
• Rent increases and Price gouging
• Premises conditions and maintenance
• Late or failing to pay rent as agreed upon
• Maintenance and repair disputes and unreasonable accommodations

While the help of a legal professional may be necessary in some cases, a review of the lease agreement can resolve many disputes.

Reviewing the Lease Agreement

When there are tenants and their landlords have a disagreement, the first step is thoroughly reviewing the lease agreement. Leases are relatively long, and many people sign them quickly without reading the contract entirely. However, they are legally binding and provide the terms and conditions, including the landlord’s and tenant’s rights and responsibilities.

The solution to the problem may agree, allowing parties to resolve the dispute quickly. However, sometimes, property owners add verbiage to the contracts out of compliance with state laws. Reviewing the regulations and speaking with an attorney experienced in handling conflicts between landlords and tenants in Westlake Village is an effective way to protect their legal rights.

Landlord Obligations for Habitable Premises

Rentals must be habitable, meaning they must be structurally sound, sanitary, and safe for renters living on the premises. According to the California Civil Code § 1941.1, landlords must ensure rental units comply with the guidelines of the statute, including:

• Working heating system
• Unbroken and working windows and doors
• Safe and working electrical wiring and lighting
• Plumbing and gas must receive regular maintenance and work properly
• Roof and exterior walls must be waterproof and provide weather protection
• Running water adhering to the code and providing both cold and hot water, and a working sewage disposal system
• Safe, clean, and rodent-free premises, including the outside and inside of the property, such as floors, stairways, walkways

Property owners renting to tenants must ensure regular maintenance and upkeep to keep the premises safe and hazard-free. When the person responsible for the property fails to comply with the rules and regulations for their tenants, a lawyer in Westlake Village could help resolve the issue and, when applicable, collect damages from the party failing to comply.

Prompt Property Repairs

Landowners renting out the property must complete necessary repairs immediately for safety issues and within 30 days for non-emergency situations. When they fail to uphold their duties under the laws, renters may have the right to make the repairs and deduct the amount from their rental payment. However, ensuring compliance with the law is crucial to avoid penalties, such as steep fines or eviction.

Call a Qualified Landlord and Tenant Dispute Attorney in Westlake Village

A minor disagreement between tenants and landlords can quickly evolve into legal disputes, lawsuits, and fines. When the disagreement becomes an ugly dispute, reaching out to a legal professional is the most effective way to protect your rights and ensure you are fulfilling your obligations.

An experienced Westlake Village landlord and tenant dispute lawyer understands your situation and could work for a quick resolution while protecting your interests inside or outside of the courtroom. Call today to schedule an appointment for later this week.