What Are Los Angeles Tenants' Rights After a Ceiling Collapse?
The rainy winter season may be a stressful time for many tenants, as the likelihood of leaks, ceiling collapses, and other house damages are greater during this time. Luckily, under California law, tenants have rights to file claims for damages after ceiling collapses due to a landlord’s negligence, as landlords are responsible for providing a habitable rental unit — in other words, your home must be fit for living, both structurally safe and sanitary.
What Causes a Ceiling or Roof to Collapse:
The most common causes of roof collapses are:
EXCESS WATER — from rainstorms or thunderstorms
LEAKING ROOF PIPES — causing water damage to the roof and weakening its structure
HIGH WINDS — from storms
BUILDING CODE VIOLATIONS — due to improperly constructed roofs
CONSTRUCTION MODIFICATIONS — raising the roof, for example
EXCESS WEIGHT ON THE ROOF — due to lights or stored materials
PLACEMENT OF AIR-CONDITIONING — without proper roof accommodation and performed by a licensed worker or expert
If your unit becomes unsafe due to a collapse, your landlord must provide sufficient repairs and compensation accordingly. As a tenant, you have two years to file for reimbursement if your landlord refused to make repairs and you suffered as a consequence.
For This Reason, You May be Entitled to Compensation For:
Hospital and other medical bills from personal injuries
Loss of personal property
Lost wages because of the issue
Costs of relocating to a new unit
Remember: It is very important that you act quickly to report any damages or injuries that occur before any limitations can lower or end your rightful claim as a tenant. While we understand that our clients bear most — if not all — of the burden and financial hardship that comes with dealing with injuries and the consequences of ceiling collapses, our attorneys are well-trained and qualified to represent you. Our lawyers at The Tenants Law Firm are willing to fight so that you can secure the compensation you deserve and will walk you through every step of the way.
Contact The Tenants Law Firm today if you, or someone you know, has suffered from a ceiling or roof collapse to receive a consultation. You can contact an attorney directly by submitting an online form at Tenants Law Firm. You deserve to live in suitable housing conditions, and we have the qualified attorneys to help you fight for your rights as a tenant.