You should contact a water damage attorney if:

• The landlord fails to address significant water-related issues after you've notified them.
• Water leaks or broken pipes cause damage to your personal property.
• Persistent water problems lead to unsafe living conditions, such as mold growth or structural damage.
• The landlord refuses to make necessary repairs, or you are facing retaliation after requesting repairs.

An attorney can help evaluate your rights, negotiate with the landlord, and take legal action if necessary to resolve the issue.

In California, habitability standards are legal requirements that ensure rental properties are safe, livable, and maintained. These standards are outlined in the state’s "implied warranty of habitability," which mandates that landlords provide tenants with essential utilities, including hot and cold water, properly functioning plumbing, and protection against water leaks.

Water-related issues like leaky pipes, broken water heaters, and roof leaks can directly affect habitability. If such problems persist, tenants may be entitled to legal remedies. Habitability violations related to water can lead to health risks, mold growth, or property damage, making it vital for landlords to promptly address these issues.

A water damage lawyer can assist you by:

• Reviewing your lease agreement and documenting any violations of habitability standards.
• Sending legal notices to your landlord demanding repairs.
• Negotiating compensation for personal property damage caused by water leaks or plumbing issues.
• Filing a lawsuit on your behalf if the landlord refuses to address water-related problems.
• Seeking rent reductions or lease termination if the water damage has made your living space uninhabitable.

The remedies for water-related habitability issues can vary but might include:

• Rent Abatement: A reduction in rent for the time you lived with unresolved water issues.
• Reimbursement: Compensation for any personal property damaged due to water leaks or flooding.
• Repair and Deduct: The right to hire a professional to fix the issue and deduct the cost from your rent.
• Lease Termination: If the water damage makes your unit uninhabitable, you might have the right to break your lease without penalty.
• Relocation Assistance: Your landlord may be required to pay relocation expenses if they are found negligent.
• Injunctive Relief: A court order requiring the landlord to make necessary repairs.

Dignity works on a contingency fee basis for habitability cases, which means you won’t pay any fees unless we win or settle your case. There are no upfront costs, and we only get paid if we successfully recover compensation for you.