California Repair and deduct

Can a tenant fix something and deduct it from rent in California?

If the landlord doesn't repair conditions that make the unit untenantable within a reasonable time after notice, the tenant may make the repair and deduct the cost from rent, up to one month's rent, or move out. The remedy can be used no more than twice in any 12 months. Acting after the 30th day following notice is presumed reasonable.

Verified Source: Cal. Civ. Code § 1942(a)-(b) · last checked 2026-10-15