San Francisco Landlord-Tenant Blues
I originally posted this in the San Francisco forum, but then realized that it has very little traffic.
I own a single-family house and have roommates. Unfortunately, they're giving me the San Francisco landlord-tenant blues.
Does anyone know whether the SFAA's advice service is worth the $400/year? Is there another advice service that I should consider, or should I apply that money to a lawyer directly?
Also, does anyone know whether a dispute over the amount of rent to be paid on a single-family home (rent control exempt, but not eviction control exempt) in which the homeowner lives (eviction control exempt) goes before the rent board or small claims court?
If a tenant-roommate tries to send it to the rent board, can one get it kicked to small claims court?
Most Popular Reply
you can actually call the rent board up, describe the situation (anonymously if you want) and get their take on it. But I don't think it's a given that the board won't take the case, so you will most likely need an attorney if tenant makes a complaint to the rent board. But you can always run a similar, generic situation like yours on their phone support line. The people manning it are usually pretty cool, and can probably give you some basic info.
If your SFH is a true SFH (no illegal inlaw), plus you live in it, it's probably considered master tenant/tenant relationship, and the tenants usually have many less rights. Still check with rent board. I'd make that call before ponying up < $300/hr on an SF attorney.
Let us know how it goes. SF LL/tenant situations (unfortunately) usually make for interesting stories ;( good luck!