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[ca – Berkeley] Rented A “private Bedroom,” But It’s Separated From My Roommate By An Accordion Partition

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Location: Berkeley CA

I’m a UC Berkeley student paying $1,690/month for what was represented to me as a private bedroom.
The building was under construction when I signed, so I couldn’t inspect the finished unit. Construction also wasn’t completed by my scheduled move-in date, and management ultimately waived my August rent because of the delay.

When I finally moved in, I discovered my bedroom was separated from my roommate’s by a curtain, not a normal wall and door. Management later installed an accordion/folding partition, but there is essentially no sound privacy. This setup was never disclosed to me before signing, and the floor plan appeared to show separate sleeping spaces.

I was told they cannot install a real wall because my roommate’s sleeping area does not have a window, so completely walling it off would apparently create an issue with the room.

The unit was also missing the fridge and microwave for approximately the first week and a half after move-in.
I would not have signed a lease for $1,690/month had I known this was the setup. I have the lease, floor plan, communications/advertising, and photos/videos.

What legal remedies might I have? Could the lack of disclosure constitute misrepresentation or a material nondisclosure? Can this legally be rented as a “private bedroom” in Berkeley? Would it be reasonable to pursue a rent reduction, transfer to an actual private bedroom, modification of the unit, or release from the lease without penalty?
I’m trying to understand my rights before negotiating further with management.

submitted by /u/Empty_Negotiation_20
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