Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in California

Re: Warm water

You are entitled to hot water. Mr. Bennett has listed the various remedies. I would also find out from the landlord why the project can not be divided up into parts so that some of the units may not have hot water for just a few days and not the entire 3 weeks. Perhaps a portable boiler can be brought in to supply the hot water. I do not know what work is being done or how large the complex is. You certainly should try to get discount on your rent as a lesser amount of services are being provided. If you can not get any satisfaction, then getting Mr. Bennett to write a letter might work.

Re: Warm water

The law says (1) the landlord needs written notice. (Obviously, he knows!). (2) The landlord needs reasonable time to make repairs. Is 3 weeks reasonable? Maybe, maybe not. Here are your options: (1) work out a deal with landlord to refund money, put you up in a motel, etc. See if you can reach an agreement you think is fair. (2) You can repair and deduct. You pay for the repairs, and deduct from the rent (not to exceed one month's rent) and only twice in a 12 month period. (3) Move out and you have no more liability for rent, or the lease. (4) Contact local code enforcement office. (5) Contact the health department in your city. (6) Make the necessary repairs, and sue landlord in small claims court.

You take your choice. Frequently, a letter from an attorney produces quick results. Feel free to e-mail or call me, if you need more help. You have a lot of choices here.