Legal Question in Real Estate Law in California

I have a single family home in Los Angeles with garage, converted to 3 small singles ( illegal units). All 3 tenants are moved to this units 2 to 3 months ago.

We have had fleas infestation due to stray cats and after a lot of efforts and money it is now almost under control.

Due to this several tenants have vacated on good terms and an understanding, that this can happen anywhere.

Unfortunately 3 tenants are now are demanding a large pay out and threatening to call city authorities about illegal conversion of the garage. 2 of them are residing in the house ( legal unit) and one is in the illegal unit in the back. House is rented by rooms and since we have vacant rooms in the house now, I offered tenants from the converted garage in the back to move there. They refused. At this point no tenants are paying any rent.

If l decide to serve notice to these tenants what are the ramifications for me as a owner?


Asked on 8/03/15, 11:45 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Nicholas Spirtos Law Offices of Nicholas B. Spirtos

You need to contact an attorney that handles landlord cases. You are in it pretty deep. The garage unit is illegal. That tenant can sue you for all rent paid plus relocation money and possibly additional damages. The other tenants may not be justified in not paying rent, but they have the threat of reporting you in their favor. Your property may also be subject to rent control. If the tenants go to the city or the rent control board, you could be facing serious penalties and damages. Get an attorney now before you put yourself in a deeper hole. It may be simplest for you to give the tenants what they want to get them to move, and then start all over doing it right.

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Answered on 8/04/15, 9:05 am


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