[clcarman]

LAHD inspected my apartment on July 3, 2008 and cited my apt. as an unapproved dwelling unit. I was assigned an Investigator and a copy of my case letter sent to the owner sent on July 25, stating he had to 10 days to respond, he could not collect rent, and he had to reply with the Declaration of Landlord form, a few days to process by the City and then I would be served a 60-day notice and within 15 days of that notice I will be paid $7,000.00. I have satisfied proof of living here to the Investigator. It is August 6th and I have not received an evniction summons yet.

Even if the owner gets a lawyer, it is a government agency order by the LAHD to vacate and pay me the relocation fees. In the letter the Investigator stated the City Attorney will get involved if he does not comply.

What can I expect? I was hoping to get the summons by now so I can plan on vacating this building. Can he get out of paying me the relocation fees? (There were no permits established to make this a unit and he never registed this unit with the city so he has been getting $1,000.00/month rent from me. I have only lived here 3 months but am still entitled).

Money isn't just handed over like that so I'm anxios to know the real facts and what to expect. Please advise.

Thank you,

[ScottGem]

What the law says and what actually happens are two different things.

The LAHD can impose a fine on the landlord. They can order that your relocation expenses be paid to you. But they may not be able to actually collect the money for you. I would contact the Investiogator that was assigned to the case and found out how the money due you can be collected. Don't be surprised iof he tells you they can't do anything beyond imposing the fine.