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Cockroaches · California Tenant Rights

Can I break my lease because of cockroaches?

When an infestation can justify moving out

Possibly, but be careful. If a cockroach infestation makes a rental truly unlivable and the landlord will not fix it, California law may allow you to move out under a legal idea called "constructive eviction" — but doing it the wrong way can leave you owing rent.

Breaking a lease is a serious step. Constructive eviction generally requires severe conditions, notice to the landlord and a fair chance to fix the problem, and that you actually move out because the home is unlivable. If those pieces are not clearly in place, a landlord may argue you simply abandoned the lease and try to hold you responsible for the rest of the rent.

Because the risk is real, this is a decision to run past an attorney before you act. Before you move out over an infestation — or sign anything the landlord offers — a free, confidential review can help you avoid a costly mistake.

This is general information about California tenant rights, not legal advice. Every situation is different.

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