San Francisco Renter’s Rights Attorney

Most tenants in San Francisco are protected by the city’s Residential Rent Stabilization and Arbitration Ordinance (or Rent Ordinance for short). Unfortunately, that doesn’t stop landlords from taking advantage of renters and failing to uphold tenants’ rights.

Understanding your rights as a tenant can help you respond to illegal actions like landlord harassment or identify a wrongful eviction. If you were forced to leave your residence due to unlivable conditions, or you were wrongfully evicted for another reason, a San Francisco renter’s rights attorney from Wolford Wayne may be able to help.

Protections Under the San Francisco Rent Ordinance

The San Francisco Rent Ordinance offers two primary protections for tenants: eviction control and rent control. In a rent-controlled unit, landlords can only increase the rent by a small percentage annually. Eviction protection means the landlord can only evict you for a “just cause,” as described by the law. Most residential units are covered by both provisions, but some exceptions exist. If you are unsure about the protections available for your rental, consult with a tenant’s rights advocate.

When an occupied unit is covered by these protections, the landlord may be highly motivated to force the tenants out and re-rent the home at a higher rate. Landlords may resort to harassing tenants or refusing to make necessary repairs in the hopes of forcing a long-term renter to leave. Knowing your rights as a tenant can help you take action against a landlord who violates the law.

Tenants Have a Right to a Safe Home

State and local laws require landlords to provide tenants with a safe home. This includes adequate heating, hot and cold water, working plumbing and gas facilities, and more. It also includes the right to be free from hazards like mold or pest infestations. A landlord who refuses to maintain or repair a unit to these standards may be trying to force the tenant out by making the unit unlivable.

If your landlord fails to make necessary repairs in a timely manner, forcing you to move out, you may be able to file a lawsuit against your landlord for constructive eviction. It’s important to carefully document the problem in the unit and communication with your landlord before leaving. If you are dealing with poor living conditions and considering moving, we strongly recommend meeting with a San Francisco renter’s rights attorney before you move out. Our attorneys will evaluate your case and help make sure you have the evidence you need to prove your case so that you can hold your landlord accountable.

Tenants Have the Right to Enjoy Their Rental in Peace

One of the most common issues tenants face is excessive noise. Noise from construction or other tenants can make it extremely difficult to live in peace, especially if you are working or attending classes remotely from your home. When landlords are aware of a noise problem and fail to address it, they may be acting in bad faith, hoping the tenant will be forced to leave.

Like repair issues, it’s important to create a detailed record of noise problems and your attempts to have the landlord fix the issue before moving out of your unit or taking legal action. If unreasonable noise is a persistent problem, consult with a tenant’s rights attorney to discuss your options.

Contact Our San Francisco Tenant’s Rights Lawyers Today

If you think your rights have been violated as a tenant in San Francisco, you should have your case reviewed by an attorney. Wolford Wayne is ready to fight for your rights against wrongful evictions, illegal harassment, and more. Contact us today for more information.