As a rental property owner, you probably do not have a lawyer in place. This could be maybe because you haven’t faced any scenarios that require you to have one yet. But did you know that breaking a minor rule when dealing with your tenant could land you on trouble, and you could even find yourself at the court? Yes, it is that serious, and without the necessary skill and resources, it could cost you a fortune before you get outthat one.
How do avoid such issues? Getting the right California eviction lawyer services will save you big time as you will have the necessary guidance in every step you are about to make landlords are like other business owners. Their goal is to make profits while getting rid of any liabilities. There is no doubt that getting a lawyer to help you achieve this is the smartest move you could make.
When will you need the lawyer’s services? Here are some scenarios where the attorney can help you.
If you are sued for discriminating tenants
You do not need an attorney every time a tenant accuses you of discrimination. It is unfortunate that regardless of how keenly you comply with housing laws, you can still face these charges especially from tenants you evict or reject probably due to other impersonal issues. You may opt to solve this among yourselves, but if the tenant decides to sue you, you will probably need to consult a lawyer. The liability fee can be high especially if the case is taken to court for settlement due to lawsuit and investigation. Even worse; it can harm your business’ reputation. Consulting a lawyer helps in resolving such disputes and end the lawsuit as soon as possible.
When evicting tenants
Tenants’ eviction is not as easy as it may sound. It takes a process, and at times, it could lead you to a lawsuit. You need to follow some rules to avoid being sued for discrimination and other mistreatments. In this scenario, the tenants’ home is at stake, and the judge may set high bars such that ruling in your favor becomes tough. When do you need a lawyer? Times can be hard; if you are dealing with your first eviction, if the tenants are resisting the removal, if the tenant is an employee who you just fired and if the tenant feels that you not following the housing rules for eviction.
If you are sued for property damage
The tenants could sue you if they feel that you are neglecting them and that you are not maintaining the the apartments. Take the example of a roof leak. As the landlord, it is your responsibility to ensure that that the tenants do not live under leaking roofs as that could damage their furniture. They will ask for compensation. Things could get ugly and in this case, having a lawyer is the best thing to do. You have to prove that you are not indeed neglecting the matter and this will require an expert to do so.
When sued for illness or injuries
If a tenant or visitors get hurt in your property, they could sue you for recklessness. This is a personal injury case, and it may take time before settling. It could even cost you lots of money. However, having an attorney to deal with the situation will make it easier and less expensive.
Helps you in drafting the lease
What’s better than having a strong lease agreement with your tenants? It is the best thing you can do in the event of such investment. Provide the lawyer with all the necessary resources such that in a case of disputes with the leasers, the lawyer can come through and help you come to an agreement without much time and cost wastage. Landlord lawyers understand housing regulations better than you do and you can never go wrong by getting one.
Dealing with tenants is never an easy thing. It is all about protecting your business reputation. You can only do this if you do not get on the wrong side of both the law and tenants. To do this, you will need the guidance of a reputable representative who understands housing and eviction law better and a lawyer is the best option. Save time, money and build a better relationship with your tenants by getting in touch with a qualified eviction lawyer today.