Legal Question in Real Estate Law in California

Responsibility of Long Term Tenant Repairs

My roomate (who is my sister) and I have lived in the same apartment building since 1981. We lived in a 1-bedroom apartment;in approximately 1987 we requested new carpeting, clean drapes, and repainting and it was done without charge. In 1990 we moved to a 2-bedroom apartment on the same floor. In 1999 we asked for the same requirements (carpets, drapes, paint). The manager says we would have to pay; however, whenever there is a vacant apartment they put in new carpets,drapes, paint. Is there a certain amount of time/wear and tear that tenants can request updated materials to their apartments, especially if they are the 2nd longest tenants in the builing?


Asked on 8/21/00, 10:48 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Bryan Whipple Bryan R. R. Whipple, Attorney at Law

Re: Responsibility of Long Term Tenant Repairs

Unfortunately, no.

A landlord might incur liability for negligence if someone is injured from tripping on a ripped carpet (for example), but there is no law requiring replacement of interior paint (absent a lead problem), drapes or carpets at any particular interval.

These are tough times for tenants to get landlord cooperation. Perhaps you should be thankful you can still afford your rent; many can't.

Sorry to disappoint you.

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Answered on 9/27/00, 10:18 pm


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