What (if anything) does a landlord have to pay as far as utilites in California?

I am a landlord and the law is very specific. The landlord is not responsible for any, and I mean any, utilities. In most cases, and this is what I do, I pay for water and trash, its easier to pay this fee than have the place dry up and blow away and have the trash filling the alley.

As far as the Landlord breaking the lease there are specific cases where he can. If the property is being sold, for example, the lease can be terminated to help facilitate the sale.

but... the best thing for you to do would be to talk to your local Renters Legal Aid Society. It seems that there is one in just about every community of any size and they are helpful and they are usually free.

Remember the laws are generally similar state to state but there can be differences so check with local sources.

good luck!

Thats not true a landlord cant break a lease to sell the house, the future landlord has to honor the lease till it expires. The tenant does not have to leave and no judge would allow it either.

Becareful what people tell you on yahoo answers. Best to consult with your local housing authority on these type of issues.

There is no California law requiring a landlord to pay ANY utilities.

A landlord can not evict you until your lease is up unless you did not pay the rent. Then he must give you 30 or 60 days notice before he can evict you.

There are no standard answers to your questions. You negotiate with any landlord as to who pays what.

The lease and state law will determine when he can throw you out. Look to the lease and the law -- not the Internet.