Payout: $391,130 Total
Proof Required: Yes
This class action settlement involves the California Attorney General’s office and Green Valley Corporation (also known as Swenson Builders) regarding violations of the California Tenant Protection Act (TPA). The company was accused of issuing unlawful rent increases to nearly 20 employee tenants and serving illegal eviction notices to six of those tenants without just cause.
The total settlement amount is $391,130, which includes $60,000 in penalties and $331,130 in restitution for 17 affected employee tenants.
To be eligible for a payout, you must be one of the 17 affected employee tenants of Green Valley Corporation who received unlawful rent increases or eviction notices in 2021. This includes tenants who faced rent increases exceeding the maximum allowable rate of 9% in Santa Clara County at that time.
The payout amount varies based on individual circumstances. Affected tenants who paid unlawful rent increases will receive restitution for the difference between the lawful rental rate and the unlawful amount charged for each month they paid excess rent, up to 15 months. For tenants who relocated due to these rent increases or eviction notices, Green Valley will provide 15 months’ worth of the difference between their lawful rent and the estimated fair market value of their new units, capped at $30,000 per tenant.
The settlement does not specify a claim filing process for individuals, as it appears to be a direct agreement between the Attorney General’s office and Green Valley Corporation to provide restitution. Affected tenants should contact the Attorney General’s office or Green Valley Corporation for further instructions.
While the settlement does not detail the specific proof required for individual claims, affected tenants may need to provide documentation that demonstrates they experienced unlawful rent increases or eviction notices, as well as proof of the rent they paid during the relevant period.
Claim Form Website: Oag.Ca.gov
Please be aware that your claim form will be rejected if it contains fraudulent information. By submitting your information and your sworn statement of its accuracy, you are agreeing to do so under penalty of perjury. Submitting false information not only jeopardizes your claim but also affects others who are genuinely eligible for the settlement. If you are uncertain about your eligibility for this class action settlement, please visit the class action administrator’s website for more information. Note that NoProofClassActions.org participates in the Amazon affiliate advertising program, and this post may include affiliate links, which could result in us earning a commission if you make a purchase through those links.