SF Landlord Sued for Dangerous Housing — Bill Sorro Housing Program

(News brief via San Francisco Chronicle)

In a troubling development that underscores the ongoing housing challenges in San Francisco, a local landlord is facing legal action for creating hazardous living conditions.

This case highlights the critical need for safe and compliant housing, especially in a city grappling with a housing crisis.

Obtained via Google Maps; Aerial view of 1465 Oakdale Ave.

The Issue

This month, a lawsuit was filed against a landlord who illegally transformed a single-family home into five unsafe apartments. These units, currently housing 15 tenants including children, have been plagued with serious safety issues. Since 2014, the property has accumulated 19 complaints, with problems ranging from hazardous electrical wiring and pest infestations to the absence of smoke detectors. Such conditions not only violate housing codes but also endanger the lives of the residents.

Legal Action and Tenant Impact

The legal proceedings are spearheaded by City Attorney David Chiu, who is seeking penalties and relief for the public nuisance and violations of housing laws. The tenants, who pay between $800 and $2,000 monthly, are living in conditions that are far from acceptable. In May, the property was issued 12 violations by the Department of Building Inspection (DBI), further emphasizing the urgency of addressing these safety concerns.

Support for Tenants Facing Unsafe Conditions

For tenants who find themselves in similar situations, there are steps to take to ensure their safety and rights are protected:

Document Evidence: Capture videos or images of unsafe conditions as proof.
Communicate with Your Landlord: Always send complaints in writing.
Report to Authorities: If the landlord fails to address the issues, contact the San Francisco Department of Building Inspection (DBI) by dialing 311 or filing a complaint online.
Seek Further Action: File a Rent Board Petition if necessary.
Get Support: Seeking justice for landlord violations can be confusing. Organizations such as Bill Sorro Housing Program (BiSHoP), San Francisco (HRCSF), and the San Francisco Tenants Union (SFTU) offer support and resources for tenants' rights issues and cases.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of enforcing housing regulations to protect tenants and maintain safe living environments.

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