Helpful to have, but not required
You do not need much to get started — even just a clear description of what has been happening is enough for a first conversation. That said, a few things can make your review more productive if you have them.
Helpful items to gather, if available, include: your lease or rental agreement; any photos or videos of the problems; copies of repair requests, texts, or emails between you and your landlord; any notices you have received; inspection reports; medical records if your health was affected; and receipts or records of any losses or expenses. A simple timeline of when problems started and when you reported them is also very useful.
If you do not have some or any of these, do not worry — bring what you have, and we can work from there. The absence of documents does not stop you from getting help or understanding your options.
The main thing is to come ready to explain your situation honestly. Whatever records you do have simply help us understand it more fully. If you are ready to talk through your rental problems, a free, confidential review is the place to start, with or without paperwork in hand.
This is general information about California tenant rights, not legal advice. Every situation is different.