How can a tenant legally challenge a rent increase?

In California, tenants have the legal right to challenge a rent increase from their landlord. This is done by filing a petition with the California Rent Board. The tenant must provide the Board with reasons and evidence why the rent increase is excessive or illegal. The tenant must first make a written request to the landlord asking them to review the rent increase. If this is unsuccessful, the tenant can proceed to the Rent Board. The tenant should include any relevant evidence, such as receipts, letters, and other documents that support their case. The Rent Board will then decide if the rent increase is legal or not. If they decide it is illegal, they will contact the landlord to settle the dispute. The Rent Board may also order an increase which is lower than was originally proposed. Finally, the tenant can take their landlord to court if the tenant feels their rights have been violated. In court, the tenant must prove that the rent increase is excessive or illegal, that the landlord failed to properly notify them of the increase, or that the landlord is discriminating against them in some way. It is important to note that tenants can not be retaliated against by the landlord if they challenge a rent increase. The landlord must continue to provide services and amenities to the tenant even if they are in the process of challenging their rent.

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How can a tenant legally challenge a rent increase?

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