How Many Days Notice for Eviction in California

Eviction is a complex legal process that varies from state to state. In California, the number of days’ notice required for eviction depends on the reason for eviction and the type of tenancy. Understanding these rules is crucial for both landlords and tenants to navigate the eviction process successfully. In this article, we will explore the different notice periods required for eviction in California and provide answers to frequently asked questions.

1. Notice Period for Non-Payment of Rent:
If a tenant fails to pay rent, the landlord must provide a three-day notice to pay or quit. This notice gives the tenant three days to either pay the rent owed or vacate the premises. If the tenant fails to comply within the three-day period, the landlord may proceed with the eviction process.

2. Notice Period for Violation of Lease Terms:
If the tenant violates lease terms other than non-payment of rent, the landlord must provide a three-day notice to cure or quit. This notice gives the tenant three days to rectify the violation or vacate the premises. If the tenant fails to comply within the three-day period, the landlord may proceed with the eviction process.

3. Notice Period for Month-to-Month Tenancy:
In a month-to-month tenancy, where no written lease agreement exists, the landlord must provide a 30-day or 60-day notice, depending on the length of the tenancy. If the tenant has resided in the unit for less than one year, the landlord must provide a 30-day notice. If the tenant has resided in the unit for one year or more, the landlord must provide a 60-day notice.

4. Notice Period for Fixed-Term Lease:
For a fixed-term lease, where a written lease agreement exists with a specific end date, no notice is required to evict the tenant at the end of the lease term. However, if the tenant remains on the premises after the lease term expires, the landlord must provide a 30-day or 60-day notice, depending on the length of the tenant’s occupancy, to terminate the tenancy.

5. Notice Period for Illegal Activities:
If a tenant engages in illegal activities on the premises, such as drug-related offenses, the landlord can provide an immediate three-day notice to quit. This notice does not provide the tenant with a chance to rectify the behavior and allows the landlord to proceed with the eviction process immediately.

6. Notice Period for Mobile Home Parks:
For tenants residing in mobile home parks, the notice periods mentioned above may not apply. The California Mobilehome Residency Law specifies a different set of rules for eviction notices in mobile home parks. It is advisable to consult the specific regulations governing mobile home parks in California.

7. FAQs:

Q1. Can a landlord evict a tenant without notice?
A1. No, except for cases involving illegal activities, landlords must provide tenants with appropriate notice before initiating the eviction process.

Q2. Can a landlord evict a tenant for no reason?
A2. Yes, in a month-to-month tenancy, a landlord can terminate a tenancy without stating a reason by providing a 30-day or 60-day notice, depending on the length of the tenant’s occupancy.

Q3. Can a tenant avoid eviction by paying the rent after receiving a three-day notice?
A3. Yes, tenants have the right to pay the rent owed within the three-day notice period, which would prevent eviction for non-payment of rent.

Q4. Can a landlord increase the notice period for eviction?
A4. No, the notice periods specified by California law are the minimum requirements. A landlord cannot increase the notice period.

Q5. Can a landlord evict a tenant without going to court?
A5. No, if a tenant refuses to vacate the premises after receiving a proper notice, the landlord must file an unlawful detainer lawsuit to obtain a court order for eviction.

Q6. Can a tenant be evicted during the COVID-19 pandemic?
A6. During the COVID-19 pandemic, specific eviction protections and limitations have been put in place. It is important to consult the most up-to-date information on eviction moratoriums and tenant protections in California.

Q7. Can a landlord evict a tenant for reporting housing code violations?
A7. No, retaliation against tenants for reporting housing code violations is illegal in California. A landlord cannot evict a tenant as a form of retaliation.

Understanding the notice periods required for eviction in California is crucial for both landlords and tenants. It is essential to consult an attorney or legal resource to ensure compliance with the specific laws and regulations governing eviction in the state.