What should a tenant do if they are in dispute with a landlord?

Tenants who are in dispute with a landlord should first understand the details of their lease agreement. This includes any rules that have been established and any obligations that the tenant has to the landlord. Knowing these details can help the tenant prepare for any dispute that may arise. The tenant should then make an effort to try and resolve the dispute with their landlord on their own. This can be done by talking to the landlord in person or over the phone, and attempting to come to a mutual agreement. If the tenant cannot resolve the dispute on their own, then they should contact their local legal aid office or tenant advocacy groups. These organizations can provide legal advice and assistance with filing a complaint against the landlord. In California, tenants also have the option to file a Small Claims lawsuit in order to seek a resolution to a dispute. This can be done in the county where the property is located and can be a much faster and less expensive way to resolve disputes than traditional court proceedings. It’s important to note that tenants should never withhold rent or stop paying the landlord without a court order or agreement from the landlord. Doing so can lead to eviction and can put the tenant at risk of being held responsible for any damages and legal fees.

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What should a tenant do if they are in dispute with a landlord?

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