Protecting Your Rights as a Landlord
As a landlord, the value of your property is directly tied to the rent you collect. However, maximizing your rental income and control as a landlord requires skilled legal advice. Rent control, protected tenants, eviction controls and other laws present a potential minefield for unwary landlords.
At The Epstein Group in the heart of San Francisco's Upper Market/Castro District, our lawyers understand the rights you have as a landlord. With more than 15 years of experience in landlord representation, we also know how to enforce those rights.
Before you take any adverse action against a tenant, it is good to get a lawyer's advice. Here are examples of some of the questions our attorneys can answer for you:
- Can I raise the rent under the rent control ordinance and if so by how much?
- Can I change the terms of tenancy in the lease?
- How do I deal with tenants in default of the lease or behind on rent payments?
- What rights do I have when it comes to rent collection?
- When can I begin an unlawful detainer action?
- Can I reduce services such as parking provided to tenants?
- Does rent control pass from one tenant to the next?
- Can I move into a unit to eliminate rent control?
- How do I deal with landlord-tenant disputes?
Many laws affect your rights as a landlord, including the San Francisco Residential Rent Stabilization and Arbitration Ordinance, the California Ellis Act, and the California Costa-Hawkins Act.
Can I evict a tenant? Among the reasons that may be used as good cause for evicting a tenant in San Francisco are owner move-ins, relative move-ins, nonpayment of rent, nuisance, destruction of property, and habitual late payment of rent. However, it's always good to get a lawyer's advice before you evict a tenant. A wrongful eviction lawsuit can result in damages ranging from tens of thousands of dollars to in excess of $1 million.
Free Attorney Consultation
To talk to a lawyer at The Epstein Group about landlord rights in San Francisco, call 415-863-5718 or complete the contact form on this Web site. There is no charge for your initial consultation.
