California Landlord-Tenant Law (2026)
Notice periods, deposit caps, entry rules, and required disclosures for residential rentals in California. Every rule links to the official state statute.
Reference only, not legal advice. State laws change. Confirm with the official California statute or a licensed attorney before you serve notice or file a case.
Quick summary
Notice periods
- Nonpayment of rent
- 3 days
- Cure lease violation
- 3 days
- Notice to quit (month-to-month)
- 60 days
Security deposit
- Statutory cap
- 1 month of rent
- Return deadline after move-out
- 21 days
Landlord entry notice
24 hours advance notice
Required disclosures
- Lead paint (pre-1978)
- Mold
- Bed bugs
- Demolition permits
- Megan's Law
- Death on property (3 years)
Market rules
- Rent control
- Statewide
- Small claims limit
- $12,500
Official state statute
Always confirm current law with the source before serving notice.
https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displayText.xhtml?lawCode=CIV&division=3.&title=5.California landlord FAQ
How many days notice do I give a tenant for unpaid rent in California?
California requires a 3-day notice to the tenant before you can file for eviction for unpaid rent. The notice must comply with the form and delivery rules in the state statute.
What is the maximum security deposit in California?
California caps security deposits at 1 month of rent. Charging more than this is a violation of state law.
How many days do I have to return a security deposit in California?
California requires landlords to return the security deposit within 21 days after the tenant vacates. An itemized list of any deductions must accompany the refund.
How much notice must I give before entering a rental unit in California?
California requires 24 hours advance notice before a landlord enters a rental unit for a non-emergency reason.
Does California have rent control?
California has statewide rent control rules that apply across the state.
Is California landlord-friendly or tenant-friendly?
California is classified Tenant-Friendly. This is based on notice periods, deposit caps, eviction timelines, and tenant protection rules relative to other states. Use it as a general read, not a ranking.
What disclosures am I required to give tenants in California?
California requires: Lead paint (pre-1978), Mold, Bed bugs, Demolition permits, Megan's Law, Death on property (3 years). Some states add local disclosures by city. Always check the state statute for the current list.
What is the small claims court limit in California?
California small claims court hears cases up to $12,500. Most landlord-tenant disputes over deposits, damages, or unpaid rent fit within this limit.
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