You’ve finally found a property you want to buy, negotiated the terms with the seller and signed a purchase agreement. You may have already paid a deposit, arranged financing or started planning your move when the seller suddenly announces they no longer intend to...
Real Estate Law
Can a landlord evict a tenant for breaching the lease?
A tenant’s lease violation can give a California landlord grounds to terminate the tenancy, but it does not automatically authorize an eviction. The landlord must have a legally sufficient reason to evict the tenant on such grounds and follow due process. This matters...
Hoa disputes when rules become legal issues
Many families choose to live in neighborhoods with homeowners associations because they appreciate the shared amenities and community standards. While these communities can offer structure and consistency, disagreements may arise when homeowners and associations...
Can a landlord keep a deposit to make repairs?
When a tenant rents a residential apartment, they usually provide a security deposit. As a landlord, your initial goal for this deposit may simply be to protect yourself if the tenant fails to pay their rent. You already have a certain amount of money on file that you...
Landlord actions that may lead to harassment claims
Landlords have the right to enforce lease terms and protect their property, but those rights have legal limits. Certain conduct intended to pressure a tenant into leaving a rental unit may expose a property owner to liability under California landlord/tenant law....
Does an easement eventually expire under California law?
Easements grant neighbors, local businesses or utility companies access to private property. Easements can make a landlocked parcel accessible or allow one property owner to use resources present on an adjacent parcel, such as sources of surface water. Easements can...
How to deal with a roommate who won’t leave
A roommate who refuses to move out can create stress fast, especially when you share bills, space or a lease. Even if the person is not paying rent, they may still have certain housing rights under landlord/tenant law. That means changing locks, removing belongings...
What should you include in an early lease termination clause?
When drafting a lease contract for your tenants, an important clause to include is terms for early cancellation. Some renters may need to end their lease before their contract is up, and well-defined terms for early cancellations protect the rights of both parties and...
Did a seller fail to disclose a recent death at a home?
Real estate disclosure laws primarily focus on defects that impact the use of a property, such as issues with the HVAC system or problems with the plumbing. However, those selling homes may also sometimes need to disclose facts about the property that can affect its...
How to solve easements and boundary disputes
Property disputes can arise when neighbors are unsure about where one property ends and another begins. These issues often involve easements or unclear boundary lines. Resolving these conflicts early is important to avoid long-term complications. With the right...

