Contaminated Water Supply After a Wildfire? Hold Your Landlord Accountable!
As wildfires become an ever-present threat in California, public health becomes a critical concern - most notably your water supply. You have the right to live in a habitable environment, and it is the responsibility of your landlord and the government to ensure your safety. We can help you if your rights are violated, especially in critical times of life or death.
Steps to Take If Your Water Supply Is Contaminated
Ensuring your rights and safety when you water is contaminated after a wildfire can be a complicated and stressful process. It’s important to take immediate action to protect yourself.
Stop Using Contaminated Water: First and foremost, do not use contaminated water for drinking, cooking, bathing, or cleaning. If you are uncertain about the safety of your water, check with local authorities or health departments for issue warnings or advisories related to water safety following a wildfire.
Notify Your Landlord: As soon as you become aware of the water contamination, notify your landlord in writing. Be clear about the issue, request immediate action, and specify the steps you would like the landlord to take to resolve the contamination.
Document the Situation: Keep detailed records of the contaminated water, including photographs, reports from local authorities, and any health issues that arise as a result of using the water. Keep a record of all communications with your landlord. This documentation will be vital if you need to take legal action or claim a rent reduction.
Seek Legal Counsel: If your landlord fails to take action or address the water contamination issue within a reasonable period, it is time to consult with a tenant's lawyer. We are experienced in California tenant law and can help you understand your rights, demand that your landlord fix the issue, and compensate you for wrongdoing.
Your Rights
Knowing your rights when there is wrongdoing against you is critical in finding solutions and compensation.
Contaminated Water Supply and Habitability: If a wildfire has caused contamination to your water supply, whether through smoke, ash, or chemicals leaching into local water systems, the landlord has a legal obligation to take prompt action to ensure the water supply is safe for use. If they fail to do so, you have the right to demand repairs or even terminate your lease if the unit becomes uninhabitable.
Right to Rent Reduction or Termination: Under California law, if a landlord fails to provide access to clean water, this could be considered a violation of the lease. If the issue is not resolved in a reasonable timeframe, tenants may have the right to reduce rent or even terminate their lease.
Right to Relocation Assistance: If your rental unit is rendered uninhabitable due to contaminated water or other fire-related damages, you may be entitled to relocation assistance. In Los Angeles, tenants displaced may qualify for financial assistance from landlords, especially if you live in a rent-controlled unit under the Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO).
We can help you by providing compensation for any and all property loss claims, displacement costs, emotional distress, and accountability for any negligence.
Why Tenants Law Firm
Experience You Can Trust: Decades of experience handling wildfire claims.
Focused Advocacy for Tenants: We understand the unique challenges tenants face and tailor our approach to meet your needs.
No Upfront Fees: You don’t pay unless we win your case.
Proven Results: Millions recovered for victims of negligence and disaster.
If you’ve been displaced or suffered losses as a tenant due to a wildfire, you don’t have to face this alone. Contact Tenants Law Firm for a free consultation. Let us fight for the compensation and justice you deserve.