Landlord-Tenant Law Guide
California Landlord-Tenant Laws
California has some of the most tenant-protective landlord laws in the country. As a California landlord, getting these rules right protects you from costly penalties — security deposit violations alone can result in 2× the deposit in damages.
Key Rules at a Glance
Security Deposit Limit
1 month's rent (unfurnished)
2 months for furnished units. Raised to these limits by AB 12, effective July 1, 2024.
Deposit Return Deadline
21 days
Must mail itemized statement + unused deposit within 21 days of move-out.
Notice to Enter
24 hours
Written or oral notice required for non-emergency entry.
Rent Increase Notice
30 days (≤10%) / 90 days (>10%)
Statewide rent control (AB 1482) caps increases at 5% + CPI for most units built before 2005.
Late Fee Cap
Reasonable; typically 5–6%
No statutory cap, but courts disfavor punitive fees. Include in lease.
Nonpayment Eviction Notice
3-day pay or quit
Must be personally served or posted + mailed.
Lease Termination (Month-to-Month)
30 days (< 1 year) / 60 days (≥ 1 year)
Just-cause termination required in jurisdictions with local rent control.
Disclaimer:California law changes frequently and local ordinances (Los Angeles, San Francisco, Oakland, etc.) may impose stricter rules. Always verify with a California real estate attorney.
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Open →Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a California landlord have to return a security deposit?
21 days from the date the tenant vacates. You must mail a written itemized statement of deductions and any remaining balance. Missing this deadline can cost you 2× the deposit in court.
Can I charge first month, last month, and a security deposit in California?
No. AB 12 (effective July 1, 2024) limits the total upfront amount to first month's rent plus one month's security deposit for unfurnished units (two months for furnished). Last-month-rent deposits count toward the cap.
What notice must I give before entering a California rental unit?
24 hours written or oral notice for non-emergency entry. Entry must be during normal business hours (8 AM–6 PM) unless the tenant agrees otherwise.
How much can I raise rent in California?
For units covered by AB 1482 (most rental housing built before 2005 with no single-family or condo exemption), the cap is 5% plus local CPI, with a maximum of 10% total. Units in cities with local rent control may have stricter limits.
What is the eviction process for non-payment of rent in California?
Serve a 3-day notice to pay or quit. If not cured, file an unlawful detainer lawsuit. The process typically takes 3–6 weeks minimum from notice to judgment.