Legal Question in Real Estate Law in California
Secuirty provided by landlord
My apartment front door has a peephole to look out. From the day I moved in, it has not functioned properly. There have been recent incidents in the complex that I would feel safer with a new, functioning peephole. The onsite manager has offered to replace it, but I would have to buy it. I feel like this is a security issue. There are not any windows near the door to look out of to see who is at the door. Is there a law that requires the landlord to supply and pay for the replacement of the peephole?
3 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Secuirty provided by landlord
You could argue that, since it was there and a feature of the aprtment, it should be operational.
You could entitled to buy it, and deduct the cost from your rent.
Re: Secuirty provided by landlord
I an not aware of any law that requires a landlord to provide peephole in a door. The landlord could be liable for negligence in not providing adequate security.
How much will it cost for you to purchase the peephile. If it is relatively it may be worth it, in peace of mind, for you to purchase the peephole for the door. In making this decision consider your financial condition and the degree of fear that you have. The peace of mind may be worth more than the cost of the peephole.
Re: Secuirty provided by landlord
I know of no such law. Further, a new peephole could not cost more than a couple of bucks and if you are not willing to spend that, it could not be that important to you.