Legal Question in Real Estate Law in California
Construction for over a year.
In April of 2000 the tentants recieve a notice that the new owners will be doing some upgrading and construction around the apartment complex and the work should be finished in about 3 months. Well it's a year later and it's not half way finished. It looks like a war zone around here. Wood,lumber, nails everywhere, from 8:00am to 5:00pm 4 to 5 days a week, and the noise is unbearable. I have not had visitor in over a year. It seem that everytime we get a new owner they start doing construction of some kind. This is the 3rd time in 13 years. When can I have peace, joy and visitors again? Sometimes I hate to come home because it's degrading and makes me depressed. What recourse do I have? Can I stop paying rent until the contruction is over?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Construction for over a year.
It seems to me you should get together with some other longer-term tenants and approach the building management for some explanation. It has to be hard on the owners too to have long-term construction going on--remember, all those contractors and all the lumber and nails have to be paid for. What the heck is wrong with the property, anyway? After a year of work, it ought to be a showplace. Work with the other tenants--there is strength in numbers, and you can share your information and ideas.
I don't think withholding rent is a good idea.
You should give serious consideration to moving. Maybe it is time to buy your own place. Maybe you need a change of scenery. Moving out is the ultimate way to show the landlord you don't like his policies.