Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in California

Chaarging different rental rates

I rented a room at the newspaper advertised price. A few months later, the landlord advertised another same size room for $50.00 less, and then rented to a person in their 20's or 30's. I am 54. I also suspect he rented another room for a lower price since I have been living here.

Do I have a valid complaint? What other factors could validate his charging a different price?


Asked on 5/25/04, 11:14 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Scott Linden Scott H. Linden, Esq.

Re: Charging different rental rates

Your question is slightly unclear. What would you claim as a cause of action for the landlord charging a lower rent? Unfortunately, you, as well as the landlord, are capable of negotiating the terms of a contract; this can and does include the price.

Perhaps your best course of action is to attempt to renegotiate your lease. If it is month to month you, obviously, have more bargaining power. The landlord may need more income, or possible there are differences in the rooms that you are unaware of.

Before jumping to a lawsuit, especially one against someone with whom you will continue to have to deal with on a regular basis, try asking the person why they are acting as they are. You might get a reasonable answer. You might not and, in that case, it may be time to look for another residence.

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Answered on 5/26/04, 2:32 pm


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