Inherited a Rental Property in Ventura County? 7 Common Mistakes That Can Trigger Lawsuits
What heirs should know when inheriting a rental property in Ventura County
Inheriting a rental property in Ventura County can quickly become overwhelming. Along with the property itself, heirs inherit an existing landlord–tenant relationship governed by California state law and local regulations that vary by city.
In areas like Thousand Oaks and Simi Valley, additional local rules, enforcement practices, and inspection standards can catch new owners off guard—especially those who never planned to become landlords.
Below are seven of the most common mistakes we see heirs make after inheriting a rental property in Ventura County, and why these issues often lead to disputes, fines, or lawsuits.
1) Assuming the Tenancy Ends Because the Property Was Inherited
A common misconception is that tenants must move out when a property changes ownership.
In Ventura County, tenant rights transfer with the property. Inheriting a rental does not automatically allow an owner to terminate a tenancy. Depending on the situation, tenants may be protected by state just-cause rules, state rent control (AB 1482), and other tenant protections.
Attempting to remove a tenant without following the correct legal process can result in wrongful eviction claims and significant financial penalties.
2) Not Understanding Local Rules in Thousand Oaks or Simi Valley
While Ventura County does not have a countywide rent control ordinance, city-level enforcement and interpretation still matter.
In cities like Thousand Oaks and Simi Valley, owners should pay close attention to:
- How state rent control is applied
- Local notice expectations
- Inspection standards tied to habitability and safety
- Enforcement practices by city inspectors
Many inherited-property issues arise not from intentional violations, but from owners unknowingly missing local procedures or timelines.
3) Delaying Repairs During Probate or Decision-Making
Heirs often delay repairs while waiting for probate to conclude or while deciding whether to sell or keep the property. Unfortunately, habitability obligations do not pause during probate or ownership transitions.
Tenants are entitled to safe and livable housing, including:
- Working plumbing and electrical systems
- Adequate heat
- Weatherproofing
- Structural safety
In Thousand Oaks and Simi Valley, unresolved maintenance issues often lead to city inspections, which can escalate into correction orders or fines if not handled promptly.
4) Raising Rent Without Understanding AB 1482 Limits
Many heirs assume they can raise rent to market rates immediately after inheriting a property. In most cases, this is incorrect.
Under California’s Tenant Protection Act (AB 1482), annual rent increases are capped, proper notice is required, and certain timing restrictions apply.
Raising rent incorrectly—even unintentionally—can invalidate the increase and expose owners to tenant complaints or legal claims.
5) Using Informal “Cash-for-Keys” Agreements
Offering a tenant money to voluntarily move out is common, but risky when done incorrectly.
Even in Ventura County cities without local rent control ordinances, cash-for-keys agreements must still comply with applicable state tenant protection laws and should be properly documented.
Poorly handled agreements can lead to allegations of harassment or coercion, particularly when tenants feel pressured during an ownership transition.
6) Missing Required Disclosures on an Older Property
Many inherited properties in Ventura County are older homes, and documentation is often incomplete.
Commonly missing or outdated disclosures include:
- Lead-based paint disclosures (especially for pre-1978 homes)
- Mold disclosures
- Bed bug notices
- Required rent control and tenant rights disclosures (when applicable)
These omissions may not cause immediate issues, but they can significantly weaken an owner’s position if a dispute arises.
7) Trying to Self-Manage During a High-Risk Transition Period
The period immediately after inheritance is one of the highest-risk times for landlords.
Heirs are often managing probate timelines, emotional family decisions, unfamiliar rental laws, and nervous or uncertain tenants. Without a clear plan, well-intentioned actions can unintentionally increase legal exposure rather than protect the property.
A Smarter First Step for Ventura County Heirs
Before making changes to rent, issuing notices, or negotiating move-outs, it’s important to understand:
- The tenant’s legal protections
- How state law applies locally in Thousand Oaks or Simi Valley
- The property’s current compliance status
Taking the time to evaluate these factors early can prevent disputes, fines, and costly legal mistakes.
Final Thoughts
Inheriting a rental property in Ventura County is not just a financial decision—it’s a legal transition. Understanding local enforcement practices and state requirements can make the difference between a smooth transition and a prolonged dispute.
For heirs who are unsure how to proceed, seeking guidance early can provide clarity and help protect both the property and everyone involved.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Laws and local requirements can change, and each situation is different. For legal advice, consult a qualified attorney.