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View Full Version : Breaking a rental lease in Ca.


jahilia
Aug 19, 2008, 02:21 PM
Hello,
I signed an 18 month rental agreement, and still have 2 months left on it. In the past week, two large trees have fallen on the property, causing damage to power and phone lines both times. The lines snapped in two, destroying my computer and other appliances. (I live in a pretty rural area and the trees that came down were not on the property itself, but the second tree missed the house by about 3 feet). My question is, are these conditions enough to break a lease? I'm terrified every time the wind blows and I watch all the trees around us sway. Thanks for your help!

I just thought it might be helpful to add that I have never had contact with the owner, this is through a property management company.

rockinmommy
Aug 19, 2008, 02:30 PM
While very unfortunate, I don't see anything in what you've told us that would allow you to break your lease. Your renter's insurance will cover any damages that you've experienced.

jahilia
Aug 19, 2008, 02:35 PM
Thanks for replying, I was hoping it would fall under a "dangerous conditions" exemption or something - I guess I'll have to stick it out for another couple months...

rockinmommy
Aug 19, 2008, 02:40 PM
Well, you said yourself that the trees that fell weren't even on the property that you're renting. Your landlord has NO control over the neighbor's trees. Or of the weather, for that matter.

I understand your frustration and feeling vulnerable now, but unless there's a lot more to the story that your LL has control over you're out of luck.