Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in California

Rent - Late Fees

Hi,

I live in an apartment complex in simi Valley. I have a year's contract on the lease. As per the lease the late charges are 10% of the monthly rent. The late charges are applied on the 3rd day of the month. Unfortunately I was late by a day. After a couple of days after paying the rent amount, I recieved a notice for late charges of $139.50 (10% of monthly rent) + $35 (charges for sending the notice). Is this amount reasonable? Or do I have to accept anything that is on the lease (my fault... i didn't read it carefully enough)?


Asked on 11/23/05, 10:43 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Randy Schlosser Law Office of RM Schlosser

Re: Rent - Late Fees

California law does not dictate the amount that can be charged as a late fee, however some courts have ruled 10% to be reasonable while others have felt it is not. As to any other fees, and possibly the late fee, look to your contract for any other fees they may charge.

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Answered on 11/23/05, 11:47 pm


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