A tenant encountered their landlord one day and was asked if there is any plan to move. The tenant is worried that this is a precursor for an eviction. BHP advised the tenant of their right for eviction protections – any attempt by the landlord to recover the rental unit must go through proper procedures in a supermajority of cases, including but not limited to Just-Cause Evictions and rent increase protection. BHP advised the tenant what to watch for in the case of a Wrongful Eviction. BHP explained that the tenant is entitled to free advices from the Rent Board, as well as the Right to Counsel for free legal service funded by the City of San Francisco. BHP informed the tenant their option for a Buyout in addition to Just Cause Evictions, as well as the ways a Buyout can be structured.
Tenant could not get repair service
Tenant’s unit had a clogged toilet. Tenant has called the landlord a couple of times but there was no pick up. BHP advised the tenant to text, email and post a written letter to the landlord. According to the Rent Ordinances, the landlord must respond within three business days for any repair services. In this case, the landlord was out of the country, but responded to the email in a day and scheduled a plumber. In addition, the rooter service was carried out within another day. Proper communication is key in order to remove service barriers.
Tenant’s unit is being affected by construction
The landlord gave notice to make capital improvements on area around the tenant’s unit. This caused the living situation of the tenant being impacted by noises, dust and access. BHP advised the tenant to seek reduction of services with the landlord at the rent board. The landlord was able to reduce the rent for the duration of the construction work and made sufficient accommodations for the tenant on the services impacted.