Rent Reduction For Construction

Summary

California law may permit a rent reduction if construction noise and lack of balcony significantly impact livability. Your friend should document disturbances and communicate with the landlord in writing, citing the implied warranty of habitability. If the landlord is unresponsive, follow up, file a complaint with the local housing authority, or seek legal advice. Consider contacting tenant rights organizations like Tenants Together for support.

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I am asking this for a disabled friend: Balcony to apartment is being replaced. Now living with loud demolition/construction noise and no balcony. Taking several months because of waiting time for inspections. Am I entitled to a reduction in rent for this period of time.
Hi ****,
Regarding your friend's situation, California law may allow a rent reduction if the noise and lack of balcony significantly affect their enjoyment of the property.
- The implied warranty of habitability requires landlords to maintain livable conditions.
- Significant disturbances might justify a rent reduction.
Has your friend discussed this issue with the landlord?
not yet
Hi ****,
It's important for your friend to discuss this issue with the landlord first. Here are some steps they can take:
- **Document the disturbances**: Keep a record of the noise levels and the duration of the construction.
- **Communicate in writing**: Send a written request to the landlord explaining the impact and asking for a rent reduction.
- **Cite the implied warranty of habitability**: Mention that the noise and lack of balcony significantly affect livability.
Would you like information on how to proceed if the landlord is unresponsive?
yes
Hi ****,
If the landlord is unresponsive, your friend can take the following steps:
- **Follow up**: Send a reminder letter or email.
- **Local housing authority**: File a complaint with the local housing authority.
- **Legal assistance**: Consider seeking legal advice or contacting a tenant rights organization.
Would you like contact details for tenant rights organizations in California?
not yet.
Hi ****,
If your friend decides to proceed and the landlord remains unresponsive, here are some tenant rights organizations in California that may offer assistance:

Tenants Together


Phone: (*) *-*
Website: www.tenantstogether.org

Would you like information on how to file a complaint with the local housing authority?
no
Hi ****,
If your friend needs further assistance, consider contacting Tenants Together. They provide extensive support for tenants in California. Additionally, if the situation persists, seeking legal advice may be beneficial. If you have any more questions or need further guidance, feel free to ask.
Thank you.
You're welcome, ****. If you have any more questions or need additional assistance in the future, don't hesitate to reach out. Best of luck to your friend!