Tenant rights when you rent a single room
Ask whether you rent from the owner, a master tenant, or another occupant. Get the rent, deposit, room, shared spaces, term, utilities, rules, and notice process in writing. Keep receipts and messages from day one.
Living with an owner or master tenant can affect eviction and privacy questions. But it does not give anyone permission to use lockouts, utility shutoffs, threats, or removal of property instead of legal process. Safety and habitability issues should be documented and reported through the right channel.
Because room rentals are fact-specific, consult the Rent Board or a tenant lawyer before responding to a notice or dispute.
Source: SF eviction guidance.