What can I do if my landlord threatens eviction after 14 months?

Full question:

What can I do, if anything, after my Landlord waited 14 months to let me know that I was not paying enough rent and threaten eviction, after I have been living here for all most 15 years?

Answer:

You should start by reviewing your lease agreement to understand your rights regarding rent and eviction. In California, landlords can set rental rates based on various factors, including local laws and the age of the property. If your landlord claims you owe back rent after such a long period, you may have defenses based on the length of your tenancy and the delay in their notification.

According to California law, a landlord must provide proper notice before evicting a tenant. If they have not followed the correct legal procedures, you may have grounds to contest the eviction. Additionally, if your rental unit is subject to rent control, the landlord may have limitations on how much they can raise your rent.

It's advisable to consult with a legal professional who specializes in landlord-tenant law to explore your options and ensure your rights are protected.

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

A landlord cannot ignore tenant communications indefinitely. While there is no specific legal timeframe, landlords are generally expected to respond to reasonable requests and issues in a timely manner. If a landlord fails to address serious concerns, such as repair requests or rent disputes, tenants may have grounds for legal action or to defend against eviction claims.