RentGuard / Eviction Notices / California
California Eviction Notice Requirements (2026)
Complete guide to California eviction notice periods, deposit return rules, and recent law changes. Generate a legally appropriate California eviction notice in seconds with RentGuard — free.
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California notice periods
Security deposit rules
21 days after move-out. Itemized statement required. As of July 1, 2024: most landlords limited to 1 month rent security deposit (AB 12).
Rent control status
AB 1482 caps annual rent increases at 5% + local CPI (max 10%) for most buildings over 15 years old. Many cities have additional local rent control.
Key California landlord rules
✓Just cause required for eviction after 12 months of tenancy (AB 1482)
✓Security deposit capped at 1 month rent for most landlords (AB 12, effective July 1, 2024)
✓Rent increases over 10% require 90-day notice
✓Landlord must provide habitable conditions — repair within reasonable time after notice
✓Tenant may repair and deduct up to one month's rent if landlord fails to repair
Recent law changes in California
⚠ AB 12 (2024): Security deposit cap reduced to 1 month rent for most landlords
⚠ SB 567 (2024): Stricter owner move-in eviction requirements
⚠ Good Cause protections expanded under AB 1482 annually adjusted CPI cap
Frequently asked questions — California eviction
How much notice does a landlord have to give in California?+
In California, landlords must give 30 days notice to terminate a month-to-month tenancy. Month-to-month tenancy under 1 year.
What is the eviction notice period for nonpayment of rent in California?+
California requires a 3-day notice for nonpayment of rent. For unpaid rent. Does not include weekends or court holidays.
How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in California?+
21 days after move-out. Itemized statement required. As of July 1, 2024: most landlords limited to 1 month rent security deposit (AB 12).
Is there rent control in California?+
AB 1482 caps annual rent increases at 5% + local CPI (max 10%) for most buildings over 15 years old. Many cities have additional local rent control.
How do I evict a tenant in California?+
To evict a tenant in California, serve the appropriate written notice (3 days for nonpayment), wait for the notice period to expire, then file for eviction in your local court if the tenant has not complied. RentGuard can generate the correct California notice form for free.
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Generate California eviction notice →Not legal advice. Verify current requirements with a licensed California attorney before serving.
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