When sewage can justify moving out
Possibly, but be careful. If a sewage problem 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 them, and that you actually move out because the home is unlivable. Ongoing raw sewage that a landlord refuses to address is exactly the kind of severe condition that can qualify — but the pieces have to be in place.
Because the risk is real, run this past an attorney before you act. Before you move out over a sewage problem — 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.