In a compelling legal battle unfolding in San Francisco, three tenants have launched a lawsuit against their landlord, alleging severe breaches of tenant rights and property management laws. The complaint was filed by attorneys Mark N. Franklin and David W. Chen on January 6, 2025, in the Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco, targeting Susan Wei and associated parties.
The plaintiffs, Tom Vu Huynh, Hang Thi Thanh Nguyen, and their minor child Ngan Kim Huynh, claim that their living conditions at 251 Desmond Street have been deplorable due to negligence by the landlord. They allege violations ranging from wrongful eviction attempts to breaches of contract and premises liability. According to the complaint, the tenants have faced numerous habitability issues since moving into the property in October 2014. These include lack of heat, toxic mold infestations, broken appliances, and unsafe structural conditions such as missing balconies and boarded fire escape doors. Despite repeated requests for repairs over several years, they assert that these pleas were largely ignored or inadequately addressed by Wei or her agents.
The plaintiffs further accuse Wei of retaliatory behavior after they sought help from local authorities regarding these conditions. In November 2024, an inspection by the San Francisco Building Department resulted in notices of violation being issued for multiple safety hazards at the property. The complaint details how Wei's alleged neglect has not only led to physical discomfort but also emotional distress for the family due to constant harassment and threats from other tenants reportedly encouraged by Wei.
Seeking justice through this lawsuit, the plaintiffs demand compensation for damages incurred due to overpayment of rent under false pretenses of habitable living conditions. They are also pursuing punitive damages citing willful misconduct by Wei aimed at forcing them out without just cause—a direct contravention of both state law and local rent ordinances designed to protect tenants from such exploitation.
Represented by attorneys Mark N. Franklin and David W. Chen—both seasoned legal professionals with expertise in tenant rights—the plaintiffs hope their case will serve as a precedent against unlawful landlord practices in San Francisco’s competitive housing market. The case is being heard under Case No.: CGC-25-621181 with Judge [Name] presiding over proceedings expected to unfold throughout early 2025.