California Death of a tenant
What happens to the lease when a tenant dies in California?
A tenancy that either party may end at will ends on notice of the tenant's death. Other tenancies, such as fixed-term leases, are not ended by death.
Verified Source: Cal. Civ. Code § 1934 · last checked 2026-10-22
Same topic in neighboring states
All California landlord-tenant law · California landlord FAQ · Security deposit limit · Deposit return deadline · Notice to enter · Required lease disclosures · Required disclosures (mold, lead, radon, bedbug, asbestos, flood zone)
Get alerts when California's landlord laws change
A short email when a rule on this site changes. Free, unsubscribe anytime.