Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in California

Telephone Installation Charges

A tenant that rents a apartment connected to my house has asked to hook up a landline telephone. This has never been an issue with tenants in the past since they used cell phones. She said I am required to supply a working telephone line. This can be done but it costs $100 to make the necessary connections. She is withholding this amount from her rent. I know I have to have the capability of her being able to have a telephone but does the necessary work have to be done at my expense. This was never discussed when I rented her the apartment.

If it is not my responsibility, can I give her a 3-day notice to quit or pay rent for this amount owing on the rent?


Asked on 4/29/06, 2:31 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
J. Spikes Property Law Center

Re: Telephone Installation Charges

You are responsible for installing and paying for the installation. Refer to Civil Code section 1941.4, which states:

the lessor [landlord] . . . shall be responsible for installing at least one usable telephone jack and and placing and maintaining the inside telephone wiring in good working order.

Read more
Answered on 4/30/06, 7:07 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Landlord & Tenants questions and answers in California