Legal Question in Real Estate Law in California

Re: reason for tenant not to pay rent

Civil Code section 1942 allows tenants to perform repairs themselves and withhold a limited amount of rent to reimburse themselves for the cost.

However, 1942 applies only to the rrepair of "dilapidations" that render the premises "untenantable," and requires the tenant to give prior written notice and to allow the landlord a reasonable opportunity to do the repairs himself.

Unless the breakage of the disposal renders the sink drain non-functional, I would say the matter does not come under 1942 and the tenant has no right to withhold rent.

Re: reason for tenant not to pay rent

I agree with Mr. Whipple's analysis and would conclude that the tenant probably has no right to withdold rent.

Re: reason for tenant not to pay rent

Make sure to document all communications with this tenant. Obviously, this tenant is taking advantage of the situation and could become a "problem" if you start eviction proceedings. I agree that a garbage disposal problem does not make the property untenantable unless the sink backs up and causes sanitary problems. You might serve them with a three-day notice for payment of the rent or quit if you want to escalate the situation.

Re: reason for tenant not to pay rent

Your tenant will still have to pay rent. Please contact us and we can assist you with a 3 day notice and unlawful detainer.