In order to rent a place to live, we must consider different factors. Our budget, the type of housing that we need, the surroundings, the proximity to our workplaces or schools, and, above all, a responsible landlord with whom we can have a good experience.
Landlord-tenant relationships can often be quite problematic if things are not handled legally and transparently. Landlords, just like tenants, have rights and obligations that are important to know before you sign a lease.
Tenant Rights in the State of California
As a tenant, it is important that you understand your rights so that you know what to expect from both the property and the landlord. California has different tenant protection laws, which start from the moment you apply to rent a place, until the end of your lease. We will mention some of them below.
– Protection against discrimination. When making an application, a landlord may not discriminate against applicants based on ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity, religion, marital status, etc. Therefore, landlords are not allowed to ask any discriminatory questions during the interview.
– Warranty of habitability. Under state law, a landlord must ensure that the property he is renting is in sanitary and safe conditions for future tenants. This includes basic services such as drinking water, electricity, functional plumbing, bathrooms and kitchens with necessary and functional drainage facilities, absence of pests, windows, and doors in good condition, among others.
– Security deposits. The security deposit is a form of protection for the landlord in case of non-payment of rent or damage to the property. Typically, the security deposit is one month’s rent, although some people may ask for two. This deposit may be returned to the tenant at the end of the contract as long as the property does not show damage that goes beyond normal wear and tear.
If you have questions about your rights as a tenant, contact us today. We will help you review the conditions in which you are living, and we will make sure that your rights are protected.