California Tenant Resources
Your comprehensive guide to rental laws, tenant rights, and advocacy in California
What are the late fee regulations in California?
California law requires late fees to be reasonable and specified in the lease agreement. Late fees are typically capped at 5-6% of monthly rent. The fee must be a genuine estimate of costs incurred by the landlord due to late payment, not a penalty.
What are the rules for security deposits in California?
In California, security deposits are limited to 2 months' rent for unfurnished units and 3 months' rent for furnished units. Landlords must return deposits within 21 days after move-out, with an itemized statement of any deductions. Interest on security deposits may be required in some cities.
What are the eviction rules and tenant protections in California?
California requires: 1) Just cause for eviction in most cases, 2) 3-day notice for non-payment or lease violations, 30-60 days for no-fault evictions, 3) Court filing if tenant doesn't comply, 4) Tenant right to cure violations, 5) Various local rent control and eviction protections may apply. Self-help eviction is illegal and can result in significant penalties.
What are the maintenance requirements for landlords?
California landlords must maintain the property in a habitable condition according to state law (Civil Code 1941.1). This includes: structural elements, plumbing, electricity, heat, weatherproofing, and addressing pest infestations. Repairs must be made within a reasonable time after written notice from tenants.
What notice is required for landlord entry?
California law requires landlords to provide 24-hour written notice before entering a rental unit for non-emergency matters. The notice must specify the date, approximate time, and purpose. Immediate entry is only permitted for emergencies. Verbal notice is acceptable for showing the unit to prospective tenants with 24 hours notice.
Who is responsible for pest control in rental units?
In California, landlords are responsible for pest control and maintaining a pest-free environment as part of the warranty of habitability. If pest problems are caused by tenant behavior, the tenant may be responsible for remediation costs. Bed bug infestations require specific notifications and procedures under California law.
What are the rules for rent increases?
California has statewide rent control (AB 1482) limiting annual increases to 5% plus CPI (max 10%) for most units over 15 years old. Some cities have stricter local rent control. 30-90 days notice is required depending on increase amount. Rent can only be increased twice in 12 months.
What are the rules for subletting in California?
In California, tenants have the right to sublet unless specifically prohibited by the lease. Landlords cannot unreasonably deny sublet requests. Written landlord approval is still recommended. Rent-controlled units may have additional subletting restrictions.
What are the repair and deduct rights in California?
California tenants can 'repair and deduct' under Civil Code 1942 if landlords fail to make necessary repairs after reasonable notice. Tenants can repair themselves and deduct costs from rent (up to one month's rent) or withhold rent until repairs are made. Must follow specific procedures and documentation requirements.
What disclosures are required from landlords?
California landlords must disclose: • Lead paint (pre-1978 buildings) • Known carcinogens/chemicals (Prop 65) • Pest control notices • Flood hazard zones • Military ordnance locations • Death in unit (past 3 years) • Mold • Bed bug information • Utility arrangements • Smoking policy • Identity of property owner/manager
Tenant Support
Rental Assistance
Legal Aid
Advocacy
- ACCE (Contra Costa)
- ACCE (Los Angeles)
- ACCE (Oakland)
- ACCE (Sacramento)
- ACCE (San Diego)
- ACCE (Statewide)
- California Apartment Association
- California Coalition for Rural Housing
- California Democratic Renters Council
- Chispa
- Council of Community Housing Organizations
- East Bay Housing Organizations
- Fair Housing Advocates of Northern California
- Glendale Tenants Union
- Housing California
- Housing is a Human Right
- Housing NOW! California
- Housing Rights Committee of San Francisco
- LA Tenants Union
- Long Beach Residents Empowered
- Organize Sacramento
- Pasadena Tenants Union
- People Acting in Community Together
- PICO California
- Pomona United for Stable Housing
- Property Owners for Fair and Affordable Housing
- Rise Economy
- Sacramento Housing Alliance
- Sacramento Regional Coalition to End Homelessness
- San Francisco Tenants Union
- Tenants Council of San Diego
- Tenants Together
- Tenderloin Housing Clinic
- Urban Habitat
Legal Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. While we strive to keep the information up-to-date and accurate, laws and regulations can change frequently. Specific situations may vary, and the application of rental laws can depend on numerous factors. We recommend consulting with a qualified legal professional for advice regarding your specific circumstances.
