California
California combines strong statewide tenant protections with meaningful rent cap and just-cause eviction rules under AB 1482.
What this means
- Most rentals covered by AB 1482 have annual rent increase caps (generally 5% + local CPI, up to 10%) and require 'just cause' for eviction after 12 months of tenancy.
- Security deposits are capped (generally two months' rent for unfurnished units under recent law changes — verify the current cap when you sign).
- Habitability standards are robust, and repair-and-deduct is an established remedy when a landlord fails to make required repairs after proper notice.
- Many cities (Los Angeles, San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley, San Jose) layer additional rent control and tenant protections on top of state law.
Things to pay extra attention to
Single-family homes owned by individuals (not corporations) and buildings less than 15 years old are often exempt. Landlords must serve a specific written notice of exemption — if you haven't seen one, ask.
In rent-controlled cities, the local ordinance often provides stronger protections than AB 1482. Check your city and county before assuming state law is the ceiling.
The required notice depends on the size of the increase. Get the notice in writing and confirm it matches the timeline.
Trusted resources
Government and nonprofit starting points for California renters. When your situation is specific, contact a local legal-aid organization directly.
- Statutes & HandbookCalifornia Civil Code §§ 1940–1954.05 (Hiring of Real Property) Primary landlord-tenant statute
- Statutes & HandbookCalifornia Tenants — A Guide to Residential Tenants' and Landlords' Rights and Responsibilities Official state handbook
- Attorney GeneralCalifornia Attorney General — Landlord/Tenant
- Legal AidLawHelpCA.org Statewide legal aid directory
- Fair HousingCalifornia Civil Rights Department — Housing
- Tenant AdvocacyTenants Together Statewide renter advocacy
Related Playbook topics
In California, always check both state and city law before you sign — and before you respond to any rent increase or non-renewal notice. The city ordinance is often where your strongest protection actually lives.
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