Tenancy Lawyers In Concord

The Law Firm For Tenant Rights, Inc. located in Concord, California, specializes in defending the rights of tenants. They provide comprehensive legal assistance to ensure that tenants are protected against unlawful evictions, rent disputes, and other related issues. With a dedicated team of experienced lawyers, they advocate passionately for fair treatment and justice in all tenant-landlord interactions.

About The Law Firm For Tenant Rights, Inc.

Welcome to The Law Firm For Tenant Rights, Inc. your dedicated legal partner in championing tenant rights in Concord, California. With a steadfast commitment to justice and a wealth of experience in tenant law, our firm serves as a stalwart advocate for tenants navigating the rental landscape of Concord.

Concord, a vibrant city in the San Francisco Bay Area, is home to a diverse community of over 130,000 residents. Studies have shown that a significant portion of Concord’s population, including renters and working families, faces challenges related to housing affordability and landlord abuse. Our mission is to ensure that all residents of Concord have access to fair and equitable housing, irrespective of their backgrounds or circumstances.

Our Services

At The Law Firm For Tenant Rights, Inc. we recognize the unique challenges that tenants encounter in Concord’s competitive rental market. That’s why we offer a comprehensive range of legal services tailored to protect and uphold the rights of tenants throughout the city. Our experienced team of attorneys provides expert guidance and representation in various areas of tenant law, including:

We Help With:

FAQs

What rights do tenants have under Concord's rent control laws?

Concord’s rent control laws provide tenants with essential protections against unjust evictions and excessive rent increases. Covered tenants enjoy safeguards such as eviction protections and limitations on rent hikes.

How can I challenge an unfair eviction in Concord?

If you believe you’ve been unfairly evicted, it’s crucial to seek legal assistance promptly. Our team will assess your situation, review relevant documentation, and develop a strategic defense to safeguard your rights as a tenant.

What steps should I take if my landlord refuses to address necessary repairs?

As a tenant, you have the right to a habitable living space. If your landlord neglects essential repairs, you may have legal options available. Contact us to explore avenues for compelling your landlord to fulfill their obligations.

Can I break my lease early if I need to move out?

Breaking a lease can have legal and financial implications. Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to negotiate with your landlord or seek legal advice to understand your options and potential consequences.

What should I do if I'm experiencing discrimination from my landlord or property manager?

Discrimination based on factors such as race, gender, religion, or disability is illegal. If you believe you’re experiencing discrimination, document the incidents and contact our firm immediately. We can help you understand your rights and take appropriate legal action to protect yourself.

Key Legal Protections in Concord, California

Concord now has strong protections for renters. Do you know which ones apply to you? Here’s a breakdown of the laws that safeguard tenants in the city:

1. Concord Residential Tenant Protection Program / Rent Stabilization & Eviction Protections

The Residential Tenant Protection Program (Chapter 19.40 of the Concord Municipal Code took effect on May 22, 2025).
It provides rent stabilization, just-cause eviction rules, relocation assistance, and a rent registry for covered units.
Most multifamily buildings built before February 1, 1995, are covered; single-family homes, condos, and newer buildings are exempt.
Landlords must register every rental unit annually in the City’s Rent Registry.
Concord uses vacancy decontrol — when a tenant lawfully moves out, the landlord may reset the rent to market rate.
If your unit isn’t covered locally, you may still have protection under California’s Tenant Protection Act (AB 1482), which limits rent increases and sets eviction rules statewide.

2. Just Cause Eviction: Grounds & Limits

If your landlord gives you an eviction notice, they must have a valid legal reason — “just cause.” Examples include:

Nonpayment of rent
Breaking the lease or causing a nuisance
Illegal activity on the property
Owner or relative move-in (if requirements are met)
Ellis Act withdrawal (removing units from rental use)
Major renovations or demolition

For no-fault evictions, landlords must give written notice and relocation assistance.
Certain renters — such as seniors (62+), disabled tenants, and long-term residents — get extra protection, limiting some owner move-ins or no-fault evictions.

3. Rent Increases & Caps

Can your landlord raise your rent by any amount? Not anymore.

As of May 22, 2025, Concord caps annual rent increases for covered units at a fixed 5% per year.
Before 2025, the limit was the lesser of 3% or 60% of CPI.
Landlords who believe they aren’t earning a fair return can file a petition with the City for a higher increase.
Exemptions apply to single-family homes, condos, and newer multifamily units (built after Feb 1, 1995).
If your home isn’t covered locally, the statewide AB 1482 limit of 5% + CPI (up to 10%) may still apply.

4. Habitability, Repairs & Retaliation Protections

What if your home isn’t safe or properly maintained?

You have the right to a habitable home, with working plumbing, heat, weatherproofing, and pest control.
Landlords must maintain housing under California Civil Code §§ 1941–1942 and Concord’s local building codes.
If serious issues aren’t fixed, tenants can repair and deduct, withhold rent, or file a complaint with the City.
Landlords cannot retaliate — no rent hikes or eviction threats within six months of a complaint.
If official code violations exist, landlords may not evict for nonpayment or raise rent until the violations are corrected.

5. Ellis Act and Withdrawal from Rental Market

The Ellis Act allows landlords to remove rental units from the market permanently, but tenants still have rights.

Under Chapter 19.40, landlords must pay relocation assistance to all tenants displaced by an Ellis Act withdrawal.
The payment equals:
- 3 × the HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the unit type (Studio, 1BR, 2BR, etc.) + $3,000 moving stipend.
- Protected tenants (seniors 62+, disabled renters, or households with school-age children) receive an extra $5,000 supplement.
Half is due within 15 days of notice, and the rest when the tenant moves out.
Tenants may have a right of return if the building is re-rented within a certain period.

More info: City of Concord – Tenant & Landlord Resources