Construction By Landlord Results In Habitability Violations

In Los Angeles two married couples alleged that their landlord made their apartments inhabitable when he began construction on their apartments, including the kitchen, bedrooms and bathrooms. The plaintiffs complained that the construction caused the apartments to become inhabitable. The owners of the apartments disagreed and required plaintiffs to continue to pay rent. Both couples claimed that they were low-income couples and had been in their apartments for 10 years. Plaintiffs agreed to allow the owner of the apartments to make “quick and small” improvements to the rental units in order to turn them into condominiums. Instead, plaintiff contended that defendants tore down walls to the studs, cut off running water, gutted kitchens and bathrooms, exposed nails, exposed electrical wires and caused excessive dust, debris and noise. Plaintiff claimed that defendant landlord breached the following; habitability, quiet enjoyment, nuisance, negligent and intentional infliction of emotional distress, retaliation and unlawful business practice.

The above case went to trial and the result was an award for both couples for a total of $122,120.00. However, plaintiffs were also awarded attorney fees by the judge in the amount of $450,000.00.

If you have had an issue of habitability violations Penney and Associates may be able to help you. Penney and Associates does not guarantee the outcome of any specific case.