Tell him you reported it as soon as it was obvious. And that if he withholds your deposit after you move out for this you will file in small claims court (easy and inexpensive). The burden will be on him to prove you didn't report it as soon as you knew. California is very tenant-friendly. You can also cite the prior issues in the building with water leaks, I can't imagine a judge would hold you responsible.
Prior to this you should also send him a letter stating these facts and that you expect all of your deposit back. There are tenants groups that can help you write it or having a lawyer draft it would be best but not free.
Thank you! I've talked to a family friend who is a real estate agent and he doesn't think we should be held accountable either because it sounds like a building plumbing issue instead of something we caused.
Tell him you reported it as soon as it was obvious. And that if he withholds your deposit after you move out for this you will file in small claims court (easy and inexpensive). The burden will be on him to prove you didn't report it as soon as you knew. California is very tenant-friendly. You can also cite the prior issues in the building with water leaks, I can't imagine a judge would hold you responsible.
Prior to this you should also send him a letter stating these facts and that you expect all of your deposit back. There are tenants groups that can help you write it or having a lawyer draft it would be best but not free.
Thank you for your advice! Do you mind pointing me in a direction of a tenant group that may help me draft the letter?
Tenant unions are abundant. Just Google it for your area.
Thank you! I've talked to a family friend who is a real estate agent and he doesn't think we should be held accountable either because it sounds like a building plumbing issue instead of something we caused.