SAN DIEGO -- Two landlords who converted Logan Heights storage space into illegal rental housing for low-income people have agreed to pay more than $22,000 to settle a civil complaint, it was announced Tuesday.

The illegal units, referred to as "cubbies," were rented for $250 to $650 a month and did not have the required minimum amount of light and ventilation, city officials said.

Deputy City Attorney Johanna Canlas said extension cords were used in lieu of permanent wiring.

She said the area on Kearny Avenue was a maze of blocked emergency exits and pervasive unpermitted plumbing, mechanical, electrical and structural work that overwhelmed even the most experienced building and code inspectors.

"This case illustrates how important it is that all San Diegans are afforded with acceptable living conditions," said City Attorney Casey Gwinn. "It reinforces the city of San Diego's commitment in eradicating substandard housing within our City."

The City Attorney filed a civil complaint alleging violations of the San Diego Municipal Code and unfair business practices under the California Business and Professions Code.

The case was investigated by the city of San Diego's Neighborhood Code Compliance Department and referred to the City Attorney's Office in late February.

As part of the settlement, property owners Lisa Stratton and Mark Glenn agreed to pay $10,000 in civil penalties, $5,346 in investigative costs and $7,000 in donations to nonprofit charitable organizations serving the local homeless population, Canlas said.

Should the owners fail to comply with the terms of the settlement, an additional $43,000 in civil penalties may be imposed, Canlas said.

She said that as a result of the City Attorney's involvement, the renovation and rehabilitation of the properties are well under way and all tenants have been relocated.