Legal Question in Real Estate Law in California

Re: Landlord Liability for Acts of Third Parties (Contractors, Repair persons)

First ask the landlord for the names and companies of the contractors. Then complain to the contractors. You can also file a claim with the landlord's insurer or sue in small claims court. If you have renter's insurance - which is a good idea - you can file a claim with your own insurer.

Re: Landlord Liability for Acts of Third Parties (Contractors, Repair persons)

The prior advice is good, and I agree, but I would like to add a couple of thoughts.

First, if the contractors' entry was without the landlord's prior notice to you, the landlord has violated the notice statute and your complaint against him is stronger, based on the statutory violation.

If, however, you had proper notice, a claim against the landlord would be based upon a concept called 'negligent hiring.' You would have to allege, and prove to a judge or jury, that the landlord breached a duty of care he owed to you by failing to screen (or supervise) the contractor for honesty, etc. This is probably not easily done if this contractor has a good record. If, however, you can find proof that the contractor hires a lot of ex-cons or druggies, you might have a case.