Full question:
OUR LANDLORD HAS ENTER OUR HOME AND HAD POLICE ENTER OUR HOME TO CLOSE OUR WINDOW SHUTTERS WHILE WE WERE AWAY DURING A HEAVY RAINSTORM, IS THAT ILLEGAL?
- Category: Landlord Tenant
- Subcategory: Lease Violation
- Date:
- State: California
Answer:
Tenants have a right to privacy in their homes. Landlords can enter with reasonable notice and at reasonable times for specific reasons, such as making necessary repairs, following the lease agreement, or showing the unit to prospective tenants or buyers. In emergencies, like a heavy rainstorm that could cause damage, landlords may enter without prior notice or tenant consent.
Whether the situation qualifies as an emergency is subjective and may be determined by a court based on the circumstances. Outside of emergencies, landlords must obtain permission to enter, and tenants should not unreasonably deny this permission. If disputes arise over access, either party can seek court intervention.
Tenants generally cannot change locks without the landlord's agreement and must provide a key if they do. Locks that prevent a landlord from entering in emergencies or with proper notice are also not allowed.
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.