Overview Of Tenant Estoppel Certtificates

What Is a Tenant Estoppel Certificate? A tenant Estoppel Certificate is a document signed by a tenant that summarizes the present status of the lease, and is intended to assist third party purchasers or lenders in their due diligence regarding the property. Why do Landlords Request Tenant Estoppel Certificates? Typically, when the owner of a…

Basic Steps To Terminate A California Commercial Tenancy

Commercial tenants rent property used specifically for business or commercial purposes. This is in contrast to residential tenants who rent places to live, like apartment units and other dwellings. In California, commercial tenants are afforded most, but not all of the same rental rights as residential tenants in the context of terminating the tenancy through…

Effect Of A Tenant’s Bankruptcy On A California Unlawful Detainer Proceeding

Now that the state moratorium on evictions is essentially over, many renters are facing a mountain of debt that accrued during the pandemic. Some tenants will choose to file bankruptcy as a means to eliminate their debt and remain in the rental unit for as long as possible. This article discusses the implications of a…

The Pros And Cons Of Renting To Tenants With Pets

A landlord’s decision on whether to accept pet owners as tenants should not be taken lightly. It involves a balancing of several factors relating to the risks and rewards associated with running a pet friendly operation. Here are the main pros and cons that should control your decision to allow or prohibit pets in your…

Trial Preparation Tips In An Unlawful Detainer Case

If you have an upcoming unlawful detainer trial, there are some steps you should take to properly prepare for that event. Here is an overview of those steps to ensure you are mentally and organizationally ready for your day in court. Review Your Documentation It is essential for you to carefully review your Complaint, attached…

Required Disclosures In A California Rental Contract

California landlords are required to provide potential tenants with a long list of disclosures about the rental unit and its surrounding area when entering into a rental contract with a tenant. Here is an overview of the required disclosures that must be included in your agreement to rent property to a tenant. Landlord’s Contact Information…

Landlord Liability For Injuries Occurring On Rental Property

Premises liability law covers a landlord’s responsibilities to individuals who are on the rental property for various purposes. This article provides a brief over of premises liability law as it relates to a landlord’s duties to tenants and other parties when an injury occurs on the premises. In short, potential liability depends primarily on when…

The Basics Of A “Cash For Keys” Transaction

If a tenant refuses to vacate rental property after lease termination, breaching the lease, or some other valid reason, the landlord can file an unlawful detainer action seeking a court order requiring the tenant to move. “Cash for Keys” transactions provide an alternative to eviction litigation that may result in saving time and resources if…

Landlord Liability For Dog Bites Under California Law

Landlords often hesitate to rent to people with dogs for several reasons, including fear of liability for a dog bite. The concern is justified in California and elsewhere. In California, while the general rule is that the dog’s owner is solely responsible for injuries the dog may cause, landlords can also be sued in limited…