patrick.net

Ran into an Uber driver today who said he's living in an in-law unit (a tool shed, in his description), and upon move-in, was told that he'd be responsible for a portion of the utilities (water, garbage). There is a real house on the property that he says is occupied by 4-5 people. Apparently, the landlord said how they apportioned the bills was up to them.

Naturally, the folks in the big house told him that he was responsible for half these bills, despite the fact that they use a much larger percentage of it.

They slipped him a bill for his "half" and it wound up being $570. After halfway giving up, he gave them $500, and they handed him the next bill for the next quarter, plus the amount he "shorted: them. The landlords sent him a letter telling him to pay or face eviction.

I'm under the impression that he'd have stronger tenant rights in Oaktown than in most cities. This whole deal smells wrong to me, but thought I'd toss it out there for the learned folks here.

What are his options for pushing back, squatting, winning, or whatever to ameliorate his situation (aside from not driving Uber)?. :)

Is there an agency he should reach out to, if only to discuss his options?

Thanks!
#housing