Landlord duty vs. your own devices
In California, your landlord is generally responsible for keeping the rental's electrical system safe and working. This is part of the landlord's duty to provide a habitable home under Civil Code Section 1941.1.
That responsibility covers the building's wiring, the electrical panel and breakers, permanently installed outlets and switches, and any light fixtures the landlord provides. If these fail through normal use or age, the landlord must repair them at their own cost.
You are usually responsible only for damage you cause on purpose or through serious carelessness, and for your own plug-in items like lamps, extension cords, and appliances you own. A landlord cannot make you pay for rewiring or panel repairs that are part of normal upkeep.
If your landlord is refusing to handle an electrical repair that is clearly their duty — especially one involving safety — you do not have to accept that. A free, confidential review can help you understand who is responsible and what to do next.
This is general information about California tenant rights, not legal advice. Every situation is different.