Most law firms treat habitability issues as a side practice. Not us. At The Law Offices of Katherine Cohan, APLC, we take habitability issues seriously and take pride in our proven track record. From black mold to broken heating systems, Attorney Katherine Cohan and her team have built their reputation on protecting the comfort and peace of tenants by upholding California’s habitability laws.
At The Law Offices of Katherine Cohan, APLC , we are recognized leaders in California tenant habitability cases. Our attorneys have extensive experience helping tenants facing unsafe, unlivable, or unlawful housing conditions. If your landlord is ignoring repairs or violating your rights, we can step in immediately.
Landlords must provide tenants with safe, livable housing. Mold, cockroaches, bedbugs, and other infestations are serious health hazards that violate California’s habitability laws. If your landlord refuses to address these problems, you have the right to demand repairs, seek compensation, or pursue legal remedies with the help of experienced tenant attorneys.
Leaks, broken pipes, and sewage backups can quickly cause unsafe living conditions, leading to property damage, mold growth, and health risks. California law requires landlords to maintain functioning plumbing and repair water damage promptly. Our tenant rights team helps renters hold landlords accountable when these critical systems fail.
Extreme temperatures and poor ventilation are more than inconveniences—they can be violations of California’s implied warranty of habitability. Tenants have the right to working heaters, cooling systems where required, and proper ventilation. When landlords neglect these essential services, we step in to protect your rights and restore safe living conditions.
California tenants are legally protected against harassment, discrimination, and invasions of privacy by landlords. Whether it’s unlawful entry, retaliation for asserting your rights, or discriminatory treatment, you don’t have to face it alone. Our firm defends renters against abusive practices and enforces your right to a fair, respectful housing experience.
Every tenant is entitled to a safe, habitable rental home under California law. From working plumbing and pest-free environments to secure premises and compliance with housing codes, landlords must meet minimum standards. If they fail, The Law Offices of Katherine Cohan are here to fight for your rights and ensure your home meets legal requirements.
At The Law Offices of Katherine Cohan, APLC, our prominence comes from results:
Photos, videos, and written logs are essential.
Give them the chance to repair.
Inspections strengthen your case.
We act quickly to enforce your rights.
Begin by protecting your health and creating a paper trail.
Keep copies of all communication and any medical records showing related symptoms.
California courts expect tenants to give the landlord a reasonable opportunity to fix the problem before pursuing legal action.
If the issue is severe or the landlord is unresponsive, The Law Offices of Katherine Cohan, APLC can provide a Free assessment and explain your next steps.
Yes, but only for serious habitability defects such as toxic mold, sewage leaks, or no heat.
Under California law (Civil Code §1942), you must:
Deposit the withheld rent in a separate account to show good faith.
Landlords can challenge withholding in court, so it is strongly recommended to consult Katherine Cohan and her team before taking this step. They can guide you through the process and help you avoid eviction risks.
This California remedy allows tenants to hire professionals to fix an urgent problem and deduct the cost (up to one month’s rent) from the next rent payment.
Requirements:
You can use this remedy only twice in any 12-month period.
If your landlord disputes the deduction, The Law Offices of Katherine Cohan, APLC can defend your rights and recover your expenses.
When conditions become so unsafe that a reasonable tenant would be forced to leave (such as widespread toxic mold or repeated sewage flooding) California law treats the situation as if the landlord has effectively evicted you.
You may move out without penalty and pursue damages for relocation and other losses.
Katherine Cohan’s team can evaluate your evidence and file a claim to recover relocation costs, rent abatement, and more.
Generally three years from when the violation occurred or when you discovered the harm.
However, if personal injury is involved (such as respiratory illness from mold), personal injury statutes of limitations (often two years) may apply.
Because timing can be complex, contact The Law Offices of Katherine Cohan, APLC for a Free assessment to protect your right to compensation.
No. You may remain in your home while deducting the repair cost, provided you followed the proper written notice and time requirements.
If the landlord retaliates, such as threatening eviction or raising rent, California Civil Code §1942.5 makes such retaliation illegal.
Katherine Cohan and her team will take swift legal action if retaliation occurs.
This is called retaliatory eviction, and it is prohibited under California law.
Tenants are protected for at least 180 days after filing a health or safety complaint.
If you receive a sudden eviction notice, contact The Law Offices of Katherine Cohan, APLC immediately for a Free assessment and vigorous defense.
Yes. Tenants can seek damages for medical expenses, lost wages, relocation costs, and emotional distress when landlord negligence leads to mold-related illness.
Our firm works with medical experts and environmental specialists to prove your case.
Professional testing can strengthen your claim, but it’s often the landlord’s responsibility once notified.
If you pay out of pocket to preserve evidence, keep all receipts; these costs may be recoverable.
Katherine Cohan and her team can advise you on the best testing options during your Free assessment.
Unsafe housing should never be ignored. As Beverly Hills’ leading habitability law firm, we are ready to protect your health, safety, and peace of mind.
California courts expect careful documentation and proper legal procedure. For personalized guidance, contact us now!
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