CA Has Rent Control

California Landlord-Tenant Laws

Key legal requirements for residential landlords and property managers operating in California.

Governing statute: California Civil Code §§ 1940-1954.06

Security Deposit

Maximum Limit

One month's rent (effective July 1, 2024, for most landlords)

Return Deadline

21 days

Itemized Statement

Required

Maintenance & Repairs

Landlord Obligations

Maintain habitable dwelling: weatherproofing, plumbing, heating, electricity, sanitation, clean common areas, pest control, functioning locks and windows

Tenant Remedies

Repair and deduct (up to one month's rent), rent withholding, reporting to code enforcement, or lease termination

Emergency Repair Timeline

24 hours for conditions that seriously threaten tenant health/safety; 30 days for non-emergency habitability issues

Notice Requirements

Entry Notice

24 hours (written notice required)

Rent Increase

30 days for increases up to 10%; 90 days for increases over 10%

Lease Termination

30 days (tenancy under 1 year); 60 days (tenancy over 1 year)

Eviction Notice Periods

Non-Payment of Rent

3 days

Lease Violation

3 days

Unconditional Quit

3 days

Rent Control

AB 1482 (Tenant Protection Act): caps annual increases at 5% + local CPI or 10%, whichever is less. Local ordinances in SF, LA, Oakland, etc. may be stricter.

Disclaimer: This is a general summary of California landlord-tenant law and does not constitute legal advice. Local ordinances may impose additional requirements. Consult a qualified California attorney for specific situations. Last reviewed: 2026-05.

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