You have the right to safe, decent and livable housing. Many cities have housing codes to insure such standards are respected. Contact your housing inspector if you feel your rights are violated. You have the right to remain in your home unless you are properly evicted through the Small Claims Court . Contrary to popular belief, your rights are protected even with an oral lease .
Oral leases are as valid as written leases.
Written leases, however, may sometimes be easier to enforce, since those provide proof of the agreement. If you feel that your rights have been violated, you may contact the Housing Inspector, an attorney or the nearest Legal Services.