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California Landlord-Tenant Laws

A summary of California rules for security deposits, entry notice, late fees, rent increases, and required disclosures.

This is a general summary for informational purposes, not legal advice. Laws change and local ordinances can add requirements beyond state law — verify current rules with your state's official statutes or an attorney before relying on this for an actual tenancy.

Security deposit limitGenerally 1 month rent for most residential tenancies; limited small-landlord exceptions may apply
Interest on deposit requiredNo statewide requirement; local rules may apply
Deposit return deadline21 Days days
Entry notice required24 Hours; 48 Hours for move-out inspection
Late fee limitNo statewide fixed cap; must be reasonable and not punitive; local rules may apply
Late fee grace periodNone statewide
Rent increase notice30 if increase <=10%; 90 if >10% in prior 12 months
Eviction notice period3 for nonpayment; just-cause/local rules may add requirements

Required disclosures in California

  • • Federal lead-based paint
  • • Megan's Law
  • • mold
  • • bed bug
  • • flood hazard
  • • smoking policy
  • • death in unit when applicable
  • • shared utilities
  • • pest control contract notice
  • • demolition/condo conversion/military ordnance where applicable

Sources

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