Can a landlord charge you for a clogged drain in California?

Any amount of tenant hair that clogs the drain is misuse of rental property, not “ordinary” wear and tear to be tolerated by the landlord. Both the lease and California law make the tenant responsible for clogged drains caused by their neglect. The tenant should pay this amount immediately to avoid legal proceedings.

Are landlords responsible for plumbing in California?

Landlords must provide habitable houses or apartments for tenants and one important aspect of a habitable residence is the plumbing system. Landlords are responsible for providing working toilets, sinks and bathtubs or showers in the bathroom.

Who is responsible for blocked drains tenant or landlord?

Blocked drains are not necessarily a landlord’s responsibility to fix. A tenant is responsible for repairing clogged or broken drains inside the boundaries of the property. If you suspect there is a blockage in your drains, you should inform your landlord straight away.

Should landlord pay for blocked toilet?

As stated in the Landlord and Tennant Act 1985, it is the landlord’s responsibility to maintain their drainage, pipes and other areas of plumbing. If a drain becomes blocked through tenant misuse however, then the tenant is liable for the cost of repairs.

Are drains a landlord’s responsibility?

Gas and electricity, Pipes and drains: most of the time, unless stated in the agreement, the landlord is responsible for maintaining water, gas and electricity. This includes heating systems, showers, flues, drains, pipes, toilets, ventilation and electricity.

What is considered uninhabitable in California?

Situations that may be held to affect a tenant’s health can include lead paint, mold, unsanitary conditions, improper ventilation, a gas or sewage leak, pest infestations and bacteria causing illness such as Legionnaire’s Disease.

Is plumbing the landlords responsibility?

Plumbing. The landlord is responsible for: clearing blocked sewers, drains and external waste pipes but not road gullies or waste pipes blocked by tenant misuse. pipe work, radiators, fittings and valves.

Who pays for a clogged toilet?

If repairs are needed due to negligence, then tenants have to pay for it. So, if your child flushed a toy down the toilet that caused the clog, then you are responsible to pay for the plumber to come get it out. If you are legally renting your apartment, then you signed a lease agreement before you moved in.