9. What are my rights?

You may rent your apartment to someone else, as long as your agreement does not say you cannot. This is called "subleasing." If the agreement forbids subleasing, check with the owner and try to get approval in writing. Be sure that your subtenant is responsible. If a subtenant does not pay the rent or damages the place, you will have to pay. Some communities have "rent-control" laws that give you certain protections against rent increases. These laws usually say when and how much your rent can be raised. Many local governments have "rent board" agencies that can help you with issues involving local rent laws and ordinances. You also have the right to a decent place to live for the rent you pay. The law says that your apartment must be livable. If the apartment is not livable -- through no fault of your own -- you can move. You may not have to pay rent after you move, even though you have a lease. According to the law, for a place to be unlivable or "untenantable," the problem must be substantial and may involve a lack of:

• waterproofing and weather proofing such as unbroken windows.
• plumbing that is in good working order.
• enough hot and cold running water to bathe and clean.
• heat.
• electrical lighting that is in good working order.
• clean grounds and building -- without a build-up of trash at the time you move in.
• elimination of roaches and rodents.
• enough trash cans to hold your garbage.
• floors, stairs and railings that are in good repair.

The purpose of this website is to provide general information on the law, which is subject to change. Content is derived from the State Bar of California Pamphlets: Http://www.calbar.org