California tenant rights

California has some of the most tenant-protective rules in the country: a 21-day deposit return window, a statewide rent-increase cap under AB 1482, and a firm 24-hour entry-notice rule.

• California security deposit law: 21 days to return the deposit; cap 1 month's rent
• California eviction process: 3 days nonpayment notice
• California repair obligations: habitability protected
• California landlord entry notice: 24 hours entry notice
• California rent increase rules: 30 days rent-increase notice

Nearby states: Oregon · Nevada · Arizona.

General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and vary by locality; consult a licensed attorney or your local housing authority.

Updated July 2026