Residential owners and tenants should be familiar with specific clauses that seek to eliminate protections afforded to tenants by California law. Under California’s Civil Code, certain provisions in a residential lease are unenforceable and a tenant may not waive these enumerated rights. Some of the common clauses to be aware of when reviewing a residential lease contract include:
Right to repair and deduct. Tenants have the right to occupy a habitable premises. If the landlord fails to make basic repairs to maintain the habitability of the property, the tenant may repair damages and deduct the amount from the rent owed to the landlord. Any lease agreement that prohibits this right is unenforceable.
Eviction procedures. A clause that retains a landlord’s “right of re-entry” is invalid and nonbinding under California law. This provision allows a landlord to remove a tenant from the premises immediately for failure to pay rent. Rather, a landlord is obligated to follow proper procedures for eviction, which entails giving the tenant proper notice as required under the law or pursuing an unlawful detainer action.
Landlord inspections. It is illegal to include a provision that allows the landlord to enter the property for inspection absent prior notice. The landlord must provide at least 24 hours of notice to enter the premises and entry is permitted only under the following circumstances: (i) to make repairs, (ii) in case of emergency, and (iii) to show the property to prospective tenants or buyers. A landlord may enter the premises without notice only in case of emergency or if the tenant has abandoned the property.
Waiver of rights. A clause in a rental agreement mandating that the tenant relinquish a statutory right is unenforceable. Similarly, a lease that provides for a waiver of a tenant’s right to a jury trial or an appeal is unlawful.
Shane Coons counsels clients on residential and commercial real estate contracts and disputes. If you are a party to a lease and need advice on obtaining the most favorable contract provisions for you or your business, contact Shane Coons at 949-333-0900 or visit www.ShaneCoonsLaw.com to schedule a consultation.