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Essential Resources for Tenants
Who Are Facing Landlord Harassment

Hold your landlord accountable for harassment.

Tenant harassment is more than just a nuisance; it can deeply affect your sense of security and well-being. Fortunately, California law offers robust protections to ensure tenants can live peacefully and safely in their homes. If you’re facing harassment, you don’t have to face it alone. From knowing your rights to gathering the evidence you need, there are steps you can take to regain control. Tenant Law Group is here to support you, providing the guidance and resources necessary to protect your rights and hold landlords accountable. Reach out today to understand your options and stand up for your peace of mind.

What Is Tenant Harassment?

Tenant harassment occurs when a landlord, or someone acting on their behalf, intentionally creates a hostile environment to pressure or intimidate tenants into leaving their rental unit or to retaliate against them for exercising their legal rights. 

What Should I Do?

By following these steps and understanding your rights as a tenant, you can address harassment issues and ensure your rental is safe and comfortable. 

Keep detailed records of every incident, including dates, times, and descriptions of the harassment.

If possible, gather supporting evidence like emails, text messages, or witness statements. If the harassment involves noise or disturbances, consider recording audio or video (where legally permissible).

Send a formal written notice to your landlord or property management company, clearly stating the harassment and requesting that it stop.

Keep copies of all communications.

If you feel threatened or if the harassment includes illegal activities like threats or physical harm, contact local law enforcement and file a police report. In extreme cases, you may need to obtain a restraining order.

Under California’s tenant rights laws, it is illegal for a landlord to harass you in an attempt to make you leave your rental unit or to retaliate against you for asserting your rights.

Common forms of harassment include cutting off utilities, entering your unit without proper notice, or threatening eviction without cause. You have the right to live peacefully without unreasonable interference.

Contact organizations that offer legal advice or tenant advocacy services, such as the Tenant Law Group, California Tenant Law, or Legal Aid at Work. They can provide guidance and help you understand your legal options.

In some cities, there are local housing authorities or rent boards where you can file a complaint against a landlord for harassment. These agencies can investigate your claims and mediate between you and the landlord.

If the harassment persists and other measures are ineffective, you may want to consult with a lawyer to discuss the possibility of filing a lawsuit for tenant harassment, retaliation, or violation of your rights.

If the harassment is severe and ongoing, you may be able to obtain a restraining order to prevent further harassment. This can apply to both landlords and neighbors.

Empowering Tenants to
Stand Against Harassment

Facing harassment as a tenant can be an incredibly stressful and isolating experience, but it’s important to remember that you are not alone. California has strong protections in place for tenants, and there are resources and organizations ready to support you. By documenting the harassment, knowing your rights, and reaching out for legal or community support, you can take empowered steps to protect yourself and your home. Don’t hesitate to seek help—your peace of mind and safety are worth standing up for, and there are people and systems in place to ensure that you don’t have to face this challenge alone.

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