California landlord-tenant law

Security deposit limit

Generally capped at one month's rent, in addition to first month's rent. Up to two months is allowed for a small landlord: a natural person, or an LLC whose members are all natural persons, owning no more than two residential rental properties with no more than four units in total (rule in effect from July 1, 2024).

Verified Source: Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5(c) · last checked 2026-10-15

Deposit return deadline

Within 21 calendar days after the tenant moves out: an itemized statement plus any remaining deposit. If repairs can't be finished in time, deduct a good-faith estimate and send the final accounting within 14 days of completing the work.

Verified Source: Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5(h) · last checked 2026-10-15

Notice to enter

Written notice of the date, approximate time, and purpose of entry, and entry only during normal business hours (except in emergencies). 24 hours is presumed reasonable notice; if mailed, at least 6 days before.

Verified Source: Cal. Civ. Code § 1954(d) · last checked 2026-10-15

Rent increase notice

Periodic (e.g., month-to-month) tenancies: written notice at least 30 days before the effective date if the increase, alone or combined with other increases in the prior 12 months, is 10% or less. Larger increases require a longer notice under § 827(b)(3).

Verified Source: Cal. Civ. Code § 827(b) · last checked 2026-10-15

Late fees

Not yet verified

Eviction notice (nonpayment)

3 days' written notice to pay rent or quit, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and judicial holidays. The notice must state the amount due and payment details.

Verified Source: Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 1161(2) · last checked 2026-10-15

Rent control / state preemption

There is a statewide rent cap: covered units may not be raised more than 5% plus the change in cost of living, or 10%, whichever is lower, over any 12 months (exemptions apply). Cities may also have their own rent control.

Verified Source: Cal. Civ. Code § 1947.12(a) · last checked 2026-10-15