California Landlord-Tenant Laws
Complete guide to California rental laws, security deposits, eviction procedures, and tenant rights
Security Deposit Laws
Maximum Deposit:
2 months rent (unfurnished), 3 months (furnished)
Return Deadline:
21 days after move-out
Interest Required:
No
Note: Landlords must provide an itemized list of deductions when returning the security deposit.
Eviction Notice Requirements
Nonpayment of Rent:
3 days notice
Lease Violation:
3 days notice
Notice to Vacate
Month-to-Month Lease:
30 days notice
Fixed-Term Lease:
No notice required if lease ends
Late Rent Fees
Grace Period:
No statutory requirement days
Maximum Late Fee:
Reasonable amount
Additional Regulations
Rent Control:
AB 1482 (5% + CPI cap statewide, local controls in major cities)
Landlord Entry Notice:
24 hours
Legal Source: California Civil Code 1940-1954.06