San Francisco Landlord-Tenant Blues

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I originally posted this in the San Francisco forum, but then realized that it has very little traffic.

I own a single-family house and have roommates. Unfortunately, they're giving me the San Francisco landlord-tenant blues.

Does anyone know whether the SFAA's advice service is worth the $400/year? Is there another advice service that I should consider, or should I apply that money to a lawyer directly?

Also, does anyone know whether a dispute over the amount of rent to be paid on a single-family home (rent control exempt, but not eviction control exempt) in which the homeowner lives (eviction control exempt) goes before the rent board or small claims court?

If a tenant-roommate tries to send it to the rent board, can one get it kicked to small claims court?

[Amit M.]

you can actually call the rent board up, describe the situation (anonymously if you want) and get their take on it. But I don't think it's a given that the board won't take the case, so you will most likely need an attorney if tenant makes a complaint to the rent board. But you can always run a similar, generic situation like yours on their phone support line. The people manning it are usually pretty cool, and can probably give you some basic info. 

If your SFH is a true SFH (no illegal inlaw), plus you live in it, it's probably considered master tenant/tenant relationship, and the tenants usually have many less rights. Still check with rent board. I'd make that call before ponying up < $300/hr on an SF attorney.

Let us know how it goes. SF LL/tenant situations (unfortunately) usually make for interesting stories ;(  good luck!