In California, are tenants required to give their landlords keys?

Question

My landlord is close to a slumlord. When we moved in, we had no keys for our deadbolt. After a year of asking for the key, we re-keyed the door. He would like the key, but I don't trust him as he's been accused of snooping through other people's units in the past. Just today with no notice of entry, he broke in through the window. Yes, I know that's illegal and I'm sending him a copy of Civil Code Section 1950.5 as a warning. If I am within my rights to withhold keys to, I will.

Answer 1

Nolo Press made a book for tenants in California on what your rights are, check it out.

Answer 2

You should have called the police about the break in.  

However, no, you can not withhold the keys from the property owner.   As a landlord I would drill out your lock and put in another and bill you for it if you even thought about withholding a key.   But, actually I would never know, I do nto go around using the keys, I just ring the door bell.

Answer 3

I would look up renters rights. I believe they need access to your apartment in case of emergencies. My property management company has a copy of my apartment key. I'm not sure if you are required by law to give him a copy of the key.

Answer 4

No you don't need to give him a key if it doesn't state in your lease that doing so you should do it. Plus if he got in to your place and I'm saying your because it is you are paying rent and he's got no right to go in without permission. Can you imagine if you provide him a key. He will go in as much as he's please. It is never too late to call the police and tell them waht he did. They might be able to talk to him and tellhim about the laws a little.

Answer 5

really? warning?  I would think a broken nose and not a hospital visit would serve as a warning! I guess Im just alittle more protective of my home! cali is a great state for tenants rights! I wouldnt give him one its really hard to evict someone here!

Answer 6

No you have to give him the key, period. Doing what you did is legal grounds for immediate eviction.