Tenant Rights

At the Law Office of Bartley Babcock, we understand that dealing with landlord issues can be overwhelming, especially when your home—a place that should be a sanctuary—feels like a battleground. As a tenant, you have legal rights, and when landlords violate them, you have the power to fight back. With decades of experience and over 30 jury trials taken to verdict, Bartley Babcock is the trusted advocate for tenants in Los Angeles who are ready to stand up to harassment, discrimination, unsafe living conditions, and other violations.

If you’re considering legal action such as suing your landlord, you’ve come to the right place. Let us carry the stress while we help you find peace and justice.

Do You Have a Case Against Your Landlord?

Understanding whether you have a valid legal claim for suing your landlord is the first step. California law protects tenants from illegal landlord behavior under statutes like the California Civil Code § 1942.5, which prohibits retaliation against tenants who assert their rights, and Fair Housing laws, which protect against discrimination. It is our job to understand these laws and how to apply them, but we also want you to be informed and empowered. Here are common reasons tenants sue their landlords.

Unsafe or Uninhabitable Living Conditions

Landlords are legally required to maintain rental units in habitable condition, meaning your home must meet basic health and safety standards. Examples include issues like mold, lack of heat or hot water, pest infestations, or structural hazards.

Harassment or Discrimination

California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) prohibits landlords from discriminating based on race, religion, gender, disability, or other protected characteristics. Harassment, such as illegal eviction attempts, constant unwarranted inspections, or threats, can also justify legal action.

Failure to Return Security Deposits

Under California Civil Code § 1950.5, landlords must return security deposits within 21 days of a tenant moving out. If deductions are made, they must provide an itemized list. Failure to comply can result in penalties.

Wrongful Evictions

If you’ve been evicted without proper notice or for retaliatory reasons, your landlord may have violated the California Tenant Protection Act or other local ordinances. You cannot be evicted without cause. 

Violations of Privacy

Tenants have the right to privacy in their homes. If your landlord enters your unit without notice or proper cause, this is not only frustrating but may be grounds for a lawsuit.

Why Hire the Law Office of Bartley Babcock?

The most important thing to understand is that you do not have to go through this alone. Bartley Babcock is passionate about helping you assert your tenant rights. 

Deep Experience in Tenant Advocacy

Before founding his firm, Bartley Babcock spent years fighting for tenants’ rights at one of the nation’s most renowned nonprofit tenant rights law firms. With thousands of eviction cases handled and over 30 jury trials taken to verdict, Bartley understands every angle of landlord-tenant disputes.

Strategic Approach to Winning Cases

Bartley listens to your story and validates your feelings because he knows these battles often go beyond legal matters—they’re personal. He uses a strategic approach to identify key legal violations and develop a winning case. His connections with Los Angeles judges and familiarity with landlord attorneys provide his clients with a distinct advantage.

Relief from Stress and Uncertainty

Bartley Babcock’s clients often come to him scared, overwhelmed, and unsure of where to turn. As your tenant rights attorney, he takes on the burden of the case so you can focus on your well-being. From your first consultation, you’ll know you have someone in your corner who cares deeply about achieving tangible results for you.

What You Can Expect When You Sue Your Landlord

Every landlord-tenant dispute is unique, but they are often similar, and there is not much that Bartley Babcock has not seen. Here are some things you may be entitled to, depending on your situation.

Compensation for Damages

If your landlord has violated your rights, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Emotional distress caused by harassment or unsafe conditions;
• Financial losses, including unreturned security deposits and relocation costs; and 
• Statutory damages for violations of California tenant laws.

Court-Ordered Repairs or Changes

In cases involving unhabitable conditions, the court may require the landlord to make repairs or cease unlawful practices.

Protection Against Retaliation

Landlords who retaliate against tenants for asserting their rights may face legal penalties. Bartley helps ensure your rights are protected throughout the process.

Common Questions About Suing Your Landlord in California

1. How Long Do I Have to Sue My Landlord?

The statute of limitations for most landlord-tenant cases in California provides one to three years to sue your landlord, depending on the nature of the claim. For example, lawsuits involving breach of contract typically have a four-year statute of limitations.

2. How Much Does Suing Your Landlord Cost?

At the Law Office of Bartley Babcock, we offer affordable representation tailored to tenants. During your initial consultation, we’ll discuss your options and potential costs, so you can make an informed decision.

3. Can I Sue If I’m on Section 8 Housing?

Absolutely. Section 8 tenants have the same rights as other renters, and landlords must follow federal and state laws protecting you from harassment or discrimination.