Riverside tenants with habitability or code complaints can file through Engage Riverside 311 (app or 951-826-5311), Code Enforcement online portal, or in person at 3900 Main Street. California law prohibits landlord retaliation for good-faith code complaints under Civil Code Section 1942.5 for 180 days after a complaint.
Tenants filing complaints against Riverside rental properties have several avenues. Non-emergency habitability issues (mold, plumbing, electrical, pests) go to Code Enforcement through Engage Riverside 311 either via the mobile app, online at EngageRiverside.com, or by phone at (951) 826-5311. Tenants should provide the property address, a description of conditions, and photographs. Anonymous reports are accepted but follow-up inspections are stronger with a named tenant present. Imminent-danger complaints (gas leaks, sewage backups, unsafe structure) should be reported to Fire or Building & Safety for emergency response. California Civil Code Section 1942.5 protects tenants from retaliatory rent increases, evictions, or service reductions for 180 days after a good-faith complaint to a government agency. Retaliation claims carry punitive damages up to $2,000 per violation. For fair-housing or discrimination concerns, tenants can additionally contact the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) or the Fair Housing Council of Riverside County. Small claims court (up to $12,500) handles security-deposit and repair disputes.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Riverside code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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