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Landlord Tenant
What can we do if our landlord turned off our water without notice?

What can we do if our landlord turned off our water without notice?

Q: Who is usually responsible for paying for most utilities?

Typically, tenants are responsible for paying for utilities in rental agreements unless otherwise specified. In mobile home communities, tenants often pay for their own utilities, including water, while the landlord may cover some common area utilities. Always check your lease agreement for specific details.

Q: Can you rent out a mobile home in a community?

Yes, you can rent out a mobile home in a community, but you must check the community's rules and regulations. Some communities have restrictions on subletting or require landlord approval. Always review your lease and community guidelines before renting out your mobile home.

Q: What utilities will the tenant be responsible for?

Tenants are usually responsible for utilities that are explicitly stated in the lease agreement. Commonly, this includes water, electricity, gas, and trash services. In mobile home communities, tenants often pay for their own utilities, but it's essential to confirm these details in your rental agreement.

Full question:

We live in a mobile home community. We only pay space rent. We are responsible for our own utilities. The landlord turned off our water without notification, not even a knock on our door. What course of action do we have against him?

Category: Landlord Tenant
Date: 04/07/2025
State: National

Answer:

If a landlord fails to provide essential utilities like water, a tenant may terminate the tenancy. However, this applies only if the tenant is not at fault for the water being turned off, such as not having unpaid bills. If the tenant is responsible for paying for water and has overdue payments, the landlord can terminate the tenancy with 30 days' written notice. The tenant can avoid termination by correcting the violation within that time frame.

Nonpayment of a utility charge like water is not grounds for terminating a rental agreement for nonpayment of rent, but it can be grounds for termination for cause under ORS 90.630. The landlord must maintain the utility system and restore the space after any maintenance.

In your case, since the landlord turned off the water without notice, you may have grounds to take action. You could potentially argue that the landlord's actions are a violation of your rights as a tenant. It may be advisable to consult with a legal professional to explore your options further.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Can I call the police if my landlord shuts off my water?

Yes, you can call the police if your landlord shuts off your water, especially if it is done without notice or justification. This may be considered a violation of your rights as a tenant. However, the police may not intervene in civil disputes, so it might also be beneficial to seek legal advice to understand your options.

What are renters' rights in California about no water?

In California, renters have the right to essential services, including water. If a landlord fails to provide water, tenants can report this to local authorities or take legal action. Tenants may also have the right to withhold rent or terminate the lease if the landlord does not restore the service promptly. It's advisable to consult with a legal professional for specific guidance.