In Glendale's Rental Rights code, landlords are prohibited from allowing their rental units to fall into intentional disrepair. These regulations establish clear guidelines for addressing instances of deliberate neglect or damage to rental properties. Understanding these rules is crucial for both landlords and tenants to ensure equitable treatment and adherence to the law.
Intentional disrepair occurs when a landlord knowingly allows a rental unit to deteriorate, such as by neglecting to address significant issues reported by tenants. In such cases, when these issues necessitate repairs and requires the tenant to be vacated, the landlord is obligated to provide accommodations to the tenant and is prohibited from evicting the tenant on grounds of repairing the unit. Additionally, landlords and tenants have the option to negotiate alternative housing arrangements or benefits beyond those outlined in the code.
Required Notice by Tenant:
Tenants must provide written notice to the landlord of any conditions that render the rental unit untenantable, allowing reasonable time for resolution.
Temporary Relocation Benefits:
If a rental unit becomes untenantable due to intentional disrepair or poses a risk of exposure to toxic materials like lead-based paint or asbestos, the landlord must provide temporary relocation benefits to the tenant. These benefits include:
Relocation to a safe and comparable motel or hotel accommodation within the City of Glendale or within two miles of the tenant's rental unit.
Reasonable compensation for meals if the temporary accommodation lacks cooking facilities.
Reasonable compensation for laundry if the rental unit included laundry facilities.
Reasonable accommodation for pets that were permitted in the rental unit.
Any costs related to relocating the tenant to temporary housing accommodations, regardless of exceeding the tenant's existing rent.
Any costs related to returning the tenant to their rental unit, if applicable.
Temporary housing must be available to the tenant within 24 hours of service or posting of any order or notice to vacate. Additionally, displacement and relocation do not terminate the tenant's tenancy. Upon completion of necessary work, the tenant retains all rights to reoccupy their rental unit.
Payment and Compensation:
The landlord is responsible for making direct payments to the motel or hotel for lodging, even if the cost exceeds the tenant's existing rent. All other compensation is payable directly to the tenant unless otherwise agreed upon by both parties.
Comparable Housing Option:
Instead of temporary relocation, the landlord may provide comparable housing matching the features of the tenant's rental unit. The landlord covers all associated costs, including rent, furnishings, and household items.
Landlords and tenants may agree to a per diem amount for temporary relocation in writing. This agreement must include the tenant's acknowledgment of their relocation rights and understanding of the agreement's terms.
Tenants remain responsible for paying rent for their existing rental unit during the displacement period.
Option to Voluntarily Terminate Tenancy:
If untenantable conditions persist for 30 days or more, the tenant has the option to terminate the tenancy voluntarily. This option is subject to specific provisions outlined in the law.
Both landlords and tenants should familiarize themselves with their rights and obligations outlined in this section.
Exemptions
While the Just Cause for Eviction ordinance applies to most rental units, there are exemptions to be aware of, including:
Rental units located on parcels with two or fewer dwelling units.
Single Family Homes
Condominiums and Townhouses
Rooms or accommodations in hotels rented for less than 30 days.
Other limited circumstances.
The information provided on this website is not intended to be legal advice. It is recommended to consult an attorney and conduct thorough research before taking any action related to tenancy matters.
