I suggest that you start by complaining to the local code enforcement agency, which should order the landlord to promptly repair the issues. You...

Since there were 2 persons paying rent, you would be tenants, rather than boarders - see Civil Code Section 1946.5. Because the owner is dead,...

You may want to tell the landlord that you are entitled to a copy under Civil Code Section 1962. If the landlord continues to be...

You can complain to the local code enforcement agency, and probably have the right to "repair and deduct" under Civil Code Section 1942. You may...

You are correct that you would normally be entitled to at least 30 days written notice of a rent increase. Civil Code Section 827. You can also...

It seems doubtful that the conduct you described would violate any express provisions of your lease, and it is debatable whether it would provide...

Oral termination notices are invalid. Unless/until you are served with a valid written termination notice, you have no obligation to...

If the landlord is reneging on the deal (including by offering you a different apartment than was contemplated), you should have grounds to rescind...

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Unless your renewal documents required you to pay the renewal fee, none is owed. Late fees are generally unenforceable/illegal - see Orozco v....

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You should refund the $ (e.g. via check), and tell the tenant to to send you any more rent. You should hire a local landlord-tenant attorney to...