Is a landlord responsible for a tenant's dog bite?
In California, a landlord may be responsible for tenant’s dog bite under certain circumstances. The primary factor is whether or not the landlord knew the tenant had a dangerous animal. If the tenant had the dog prior to signing the lease, the landlord can’t be held liable unless they had knowledge of the animal’s dangerous behavior. In California, landlords are responsible for keeping rental properties safe and must actively take steps to mitigate the risks of tenant’s animals to other tenants or guests. If the landlord was aware of the dangerous animal and failed to act, they may be found liable in the event of a dog bite. In addition, California landlords have an obligation to inspect the property with the tenant at the start of the lease and at its termination. If the landlord inspects the property and can prove the tenant added the dog after the lease was signed, the landlord can often be removed from liability. In conclusion, the answer to the question of whether a landlord is responsible for a tenant’s dog bite in California is complex and depends largely on the knowledge the landlord had prior to the dog bite. If the landlord had actual or constructive knowledge of the dangerous animal, they may be liable. If not, the landlord may be removed from liability depending on when the animal was added to the lease.
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