Exhibit 1010 – Mold and Dishwasher Defect Notice (Invalid Rent Increase Attempt)

Summary

This exhibit documents a tenant communication to the property manager identifying health and habitability violations, including mold contamination, a broken dishwasher, and an invalid rent increase attempt by text message. The tenant cites medical advice requiring remediation and requests written confirmation of planned repairs. The communication also demonstrates the landlord’s noncompliance with statutory notice procedures for rent changes.

Key Points

Tenant notified the property manager of mold confirmed by a physician as a health hazard.
Requested written assurance that the kitchen would be remodeled and mold fully remediated.
Reported the dishwasher was nonfunctional, an ongoing breach of habitability standards.
Manager attempted to raise rent via text, which is unlawful without written service per California law.

Applicable California Law

California Civil Code §827(b)(1) – A landlord may change the terms of a tenancy, including rent, only by serving a written notice personally or by certified or registered mail. Electronic notice (text or email) is not valid unless the tenant has previously consented in writing.
California Civil Code §1941.1 – Landlords must maintain all plumbing, heating, electrical, and kitchen facilities (including appliances) in good working order. A broken dishwasher constitutes a failure to maintain essential facilities if part of the lease or rental agreement.
California Health & Safety Code §17920.3 – Defines substandard housing conditions, including the presence of visible mold growth that endangers health and safety.
California Civil Code §1942.4(a) – A landlord may not demand or collect rent if the dwelling is uninhabitable and the landlord has received notice of the condition without correction within a reasonable time.
California Civil Code §1941.3 – Requires proper waterproofing and weather protection of walls, windows, and floors, which applies to the prevention of mold and dampness.

Cross-References

Timeline Node: April 2024 — Tenant notice of mold, dishwasher defect, and invalid rent increase.

Folder Path: /Exhibits/Habitability_and_Health/1010.html

Tags: mold remediation, dishwasher defect, invalid rent notice, habitability, California law

Summary

Screenshot Evidence

Key Points

Applicable California Law

Cross-References