Legal Question in Civil Litigation in California
Slum lord has decreased my property value
I want to know how we can go about suing a property owner (slum lord) for not screening tenants (Gang members and Druggies) and allowing her home to fall into deteriorating standards, ultimately, lowering the property value of the entire surrounding neighborhood. Examples: piles of junk in front and back of yards, chipped paint around entire home, driveway is covered in motor oil, graffiti litters the home and the windows. Would it be beneficial to include neighbor's in the lawsuit or just have their statements? Would they have to file seperately or can we all file together?
3 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Slum lord has decreased my property value
You might start with a call to the owner and a discussion. Next you could go to the dept of housing or health dept. Next, contact the City Attorney's office and ask it for advice or guidelines. If you get nowhere, then sue the landlord for nuisance. Good luck.
Re: Slum lord has decreased my property value
Contact and complaint to the building inspection department, the health department, the police, the city attorney, etc. They can keep your complaints confidential, since the problem is publicly visible, and that way you don't risk retaliation. Lawsuit is the last resort, but contact a local attorney about it.
Re: Slum lord has decreased my property value
A tactic that has worked in the past is to have all of the surrounding neighbors file claims for nuisance against the LL in small claims court -- one at a time.
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