Contents

Navigating the eviction process in California requires a careful understanding of state-specific laws and procedures. With some of the strongest tenant protections in the country, California’s eviction laws are designed to ensure fairness and accountability for both landlords and tenants.

However, the process can be daunting, with its many steps and potential legal pitfalls.

This guide simplifies the California eviction process, breaking down each step into actionable, easy-to-understand sections.

Whether you’re dealing with a tenant who has stopped paying rent, violated the lease, or remained in the property after the lease expired, understanding the correct legal procedures is important.

In this blog, we’ll cover:

  • Valid reasons for eviction under California law.
  • How to serve notices and file an Unlawful Detainer lawsuit.
  • Recent legal updates and their impact on landlords.
  • Tips for avoiding common mistakes and protecting your rental investment.

By following this guide, landlords can confidently navigate the eviction process, comply with California’s laws, and minimize the risks associated with evictions.

Valid Reasons for Eviction Under California Law

In California, landlords must have a valid reason—often referred to as “just cause” to evict a tenant. The state’s tenant protection laws outline specific scenarios that qualify as legitimate grounds for eviction. These reasons fall into two categories: at-fault evictions and no-fault evictions.

At-Fault Evictions

At-fault evictions occur when the tenant violates the lease agreement or engages in behavior that warrants eviction. Common reasons include:

  • Non-Payment of Rent: Failure to pay rent on time is one of the most common reasons for eviction. California law typically requires landlords to serve a 3-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Quit before proceeding with an eviction for non-payment.
  • Lease Violations: Tenants who breach their lease terms, such as having unauthorized pets, exceeding occupancy limits, or failing to maintain the property, may be evicted. A 3-Day Notice to Cure or Quit is often used in these cases.
  • Illegal Activities: Engaging in illegal activities on the rental property, such as drug-related offenses or other criminal behavior, is grounds for immediate eviction. In these cases, landlords may issue an Unconditional 3-Day Notice to Quit.
  • Property Damage: Intentional or severe damage to the rental property beyond normal wear and tear can result in eviction.
  • Nuisance or Repeated Violations: Tenants who repeatedly violate lease terms or create significant disturbances for neighbors may also face eviction.

No-Fault Evictions

No-fault evictions occur when the landlord needs to recover possession of the property for reasons unrelated to tenant behavior. These situations require landlords to comply with additional regulations, such as relocation assistance in some cases. Common reasons include:

  • Owner Move-In: The landlord or an immediate family member intends to occupy the unit as their primary residence.
  • Withdrawal from the Rental Market: Under the Ellis Act, landlords can remove a property from the rental market entirely, subject to strict compliance with local and state laws.
  • Substantial Remodeling: If significant repairs or renovations make it unfeasible for the tenant to remain, landlords may issue a no-fault eviction notice.
  • Government Orders: Evictions may be required to comply with a government order related to habitability or other safety concerns.

Just Cause Protections

California’s Tenant Protection Act of 2019 requires landlords to provide “just cause” for evictions after a tenant has lived in a rental property for 12 months or longer. Additionally, rent-controlled areas like Los Angeles and San Francisco often impose stricter rules, including enhanced protections for tenants facing eviction.

By understanding these valid reasons for eviction, landlords can ensure they act within the boundaries of the law, reducing the risk of disputes or legal complications.

Recent Legal Updates

California's eviction laws continue to evolve, reflecting the state's commitment to tenant protections and procedural fairness. Staying updated on these changes is critical for landlords to ensure compliance and avoid potential legal complications.

Assembly Bill 2347 (2025)

  • Extended Tenant Response Time: Effective January 1, 2025, AB 2347 extends the period tenants have to respond to an Unlawful Detainer lawsuit from 5 business days to 10 business days.
  • Impact on Landlords: This additional time requires landlords to account for longer timelines in the eviction process and reinforces the importance of proper documentation and communication.

Senate Bill 567 (2024)

  • Stricter No-Fault Eviction Rules: Enacted April 1, 2024, SB 567 introduces more stringent criteria for no-fault evictions, such as owner move-ins and substantial remodels. Landlords must now provide additional documentation to justify these actions.
  • Relocation Assistance: The bill increases relocation assistance requirements for no-fault evictions, ensuring displaced tenants are fairly compensated.

Emergency Tenant Protections

  • COVID-19 Protections Update: While many emergency protections have expired, certain cities and counties in California still enforce localized eviction moratoriums or tenant protections for pandemic-related hardships. Landlords should verify local ordinances before proceeding with evictions.

Rent Control and Just Cause Ordinances

  • Expanded Coverage: Several cities, including Los Angeles and San Francisco, have introduced additional rent control and eviction protections. These include stricter "just cause" rules and limits on rent increases.

Key Takeaways for Landlords

  • Plan for Extended Timelines: Factor in the longer tenant response period and any additional requirements for no-fault evictions.
  • Double-Check Local Laws: Some cities have stricter rules than the state, so it’s essential to stay informed about local ordinances.
  • Consult Legal Experts: Given the complexity of California’s landlord-tenant laws, professional legal advice can help navigate recent changes and ensure compliance.

By staying updated on these legal developments, landlords can better prepare for potential challenges and avoid costly missteps in the eviction process.

Documentation and Evidence

Thorough documentation is essential throughout the eviction process. Proper records not only strengthen the landlord’s case in court but also protect against potential disputes or claims by the tenant.

Courts in California place significant weight on clear, accurate, and detailed evidence when making decisions in eviction cases.

Best Practices for Record-Keeping

  • Lease Agreements:
    • Ensure that lease agreements are comprehensive and include key terms such as rent amount, payment deadlines, rules on pets, and conditions for eviction.
    • Maintain signed copies of all lease agreements and amendments.
  • Notices Served:
    • Keep copies of all eviction notices, including proof of service, to demonstrate compliance with legal procedures.
  • Payment Records:
    • Maintain a detailed ledger of rent payments, including dates and amounts.
    • Include records of late payments, bounced checks, or non-payment.
  • Communication Logs:
    • Retain written communication with tenants, such as emails, texts, or mailed letters.
    • Document verbal conversations in a written log, noting dates, times, and key points discussed.
  • Property Condition Documentation:
    • Take photographs or videos of the property before the tenant moves in and after they vacate to document damages beyond normal wear and tear.
  • Court Documents:
    • Keep copies of all court filings, judgments, and orders related to the eviction.

Evidence to Support for Common Eviction Cases

  • Non-Payment of Rent:
    • Signed lease agreement outlining rent terms.
    • Rent payment history or receipts showing missed payments.
    • Copies of any payment reminders sent to the tenant.
  • Lease Violations:
    • Photos or videos of unauthorized pets, property damage, or other violations.
    • Written complaints from neighbors or other tenants regarding disturbances.
    • Copies of notices served to address the violation.
  • Illegal Activities or Property Damage:
    • Police reports or incident documentation for criminal activity.
    • Photos, videos, or repair invoices for damages.

Importance of Accurate Documentation

Accurate and detailed records can:

  • Help landlords present a strong case in court.
  • Protect against tenant defenses, such as claims of retaliation or discrimination.
  • Reduce the risk of case dismissal due to insufficient evidence.

By following best practices for documentation and leveraging tools like property management software, landlords can navigate the eviction process more effectively and minimize legal risks.

Serving an Eviction Notice in California

The eviction process in California starts with a legally compliant eviction notice.

This notice informs the tenant of the landlord's intent to end the tenancy and provides an opportunity to address the issue or vacate the property. Serving the notice correctly is a critical step, as any errors can lead to delays or dismissal of the case.

Types of Eviction Notices

Landlords must use the appropriate notice based on the circumstances:

  • 3-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Quit: Used when a tenant has failed to pay rent on time. This notice gives the tenant three days to either pay the overdue amount or vacate the property.
  • 3-Day Notice to Cure or Quit: Applicable when tenants violate lease terms in a way that can be corrected, such as unauthorized pets, excessive noise, or unauthorized occupants. The notice allows tenants three days to resolve the issue or leave.
  • 3-Day Unconditional Quit Notice: Issued for severe violations, such as illegal activity, property damage, or repeated nuisance behavior. This notice requires tenants to vacate immediately without the option to cure the violation.
  • 30-Day or 60-Day Notice to Vacate: Used for no-fault evictions, depending on the length of the tenant's occupancy. Tenants who have lived in the property for less than a year must receive a 30-day notice, while those with over 12 months of tenancy are entitled to 60 days.

What Must Be Included in the Notice?

To comply with California law, the eviction notice must:

  • Clearly state the reason for the eviction.
  • Specify the timeframe for the tenant to act (e.g., pay rent, cure the violation, or move out).
  • Include the property address and relevant details of the lease violation or unpaid rent amount.
  • Be delivered in a legally accepted manner.

How to Serve the Notice

Proper service of the eviction notice is crucial. Landlords or their representatives must follow one of the methods approved under California law:

  1. Personal Service: Hand-delivering the notice directly to the tenant is the most reliable and preferred method.
  2. Substituted Service: If the tenant is unavailable, the notice can be left with a responsible household member aged 18 or older. A copy must also be mailed to the tenant's address.
  3. Posting and Mailing: If personal or substituted service is not possible, the notice can be posted in a conspicuous place on the property (e.g., the front door) and a copy mailed to the tenant. This method typically requires court permission.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Incorrect Notice Type: Using the wrong type of notice can invalidate the eviction process.
  • Missing or Incorrect Details: Ensure all required information is included and accurate.
  • Improper Service: Failure to serve the notice in compliance with California law can result in delays or case dismissal.

Tips for Preparing a Legally Compliant Notice

  • Use templates approved by legal professionals or provided by your local court.
  • Double-check deadlines to ensure compliance with state and local laws.
  • Maintain proof of service, such as a signed acknowledgment or certificate from the process server.

Serving an eviction notice correctly sets the foundation for a smooth eviction process. Any missteps here can lead to costly delays or legal setbacks, so it’s essential to get it right.

California landlord tenant laws

Unlawful Detainer Lawsuit

If the tenant fails to comply with the eviction notice by either resolving the issue or vacating the property within the specified timeframe, the next step is to file an Unlawful Detainer lawsuit.

This legal action seeks the court’s help in regaining possession of the property.

Step-by-Step Guide to Filing a Complaint

  1. Prepare the Required Documents: To initiate the lawsuit, landlords must file the following forms with the appropriate court.
    • Complaint: Outlines the reasons for the eviction and the relief sought (e.g., possession of the property, unpaid rent, or damages).
    • Summons: Notifies the tenant of the lawsuit and provides details about the case, including deadlines to respond.
    • Civil Case Cover Sheet: Required by most California courts to provide an overview of the case type.
  2. Calculate Filing Fees: Filing fees for an Unlawful Detainer lawsuit in California typically range from $385 to $435, depending on the county and the claim amount. Additional fees may apply for issuing a Writ of Execution later in the process.
  3. File with the Appropriate Court: The lawsuit must be filed in the Superior Court of the county where the rental property is located. Many courts now allow online filing, which can expedite the process.
  4. Obtain a Court Date: Once the lawsuit is filed, the court will assign a case number and schedule a hearing date. The timeline for the hearing depends on court availability but is generally expedited for eviction cases.

What Happens Next?

After filing the complaint, landlords must serve the legal paperwork to the tenant. Proper service is essential to ensure the case proceeds without delays.

Tenants typically have 10 business days to respond under California law, extended from 5 business days by recent legislation (AB 2347).

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Incomplete or Incorrect Forms: Ensure all forms are filled out accurately and completely.
  • Filing in the Wrong Jurisdiction: The lawsuit must be filed in the county where the property is located.
  • Skipping the Notice Step: Filing the complaint without first serving the proper eviction notice can result in case dismissal.

Filing Costs to Consider

  • Court Filing Fees: $385–$435.
  • Process Server Fees: Additional costs for serving the Summons and Complaint.
  • Attorney Fees: Optional but recommended for complex cases, ranging from $500 to $2,000 or more.

Filing an Unlawful Detainer lawsuit is a critical step in the eviction process. Attention to detail and adherence to legal requirements can help landlords avoid delays or dismissals.

Court Proceedings

Once the Unlawful Detainer lawsuit is filed and the tenant has been served, the court proceedings begin.

This stage determines whether the landlord has legal grounds to regain possession of the property.

Tenant's Response

  • Deadline to Respond: Tenants have 10 business days from the date they were served to file a response with the court. This period was recently extended from 5 business days under AB 2347.
  • Options for Tenants:
    • File an Answer: The tenant disputes the claims and provides a defense.
    • File a Motion to Quash: The tenant challenges the service of the eviction notice or the Summons and Complaint.
    • Take No Action: Failure to respond may result in a default judgment in favor of the landlord.

Landlord's Options

  • If the tenant fails to respond, the landlord can request a default judgment to expedite the eviction process.
  • If the tenant files a response, the court will set a date for a hearing or trial.

The Hearing or Trial

  • Scheduling: Hearings are typically scheduled within 20 days after the tenant's response is filed, though this may vary depending on court availability.
  • Presenting the Case: Both parties will have an opportunity to present evidence and testimony.
    • Landlords: Should provide documentation such as the lease agreement, notices served, proof of service, and records of tenant violations or unpaid rent.
    • Tenants: May present defenses such as procedural errors, retaliation claims, or habitability issues.
  • Judge’s Decision: The judge will evaluate the evidence and render a decision. If the landlord wins, the court will issue a Judgment of Possession.

Common Defenses Tenants May Use

  • Improper Notice: Claiming the notice was not served or drafted correctly.
  • Retaliatory Eviction: Alleging the eviction is in response to a complaint or legal action taken by the tenant.
  • Breach of Warranty of Habitability: Asserting that the property was uninhabitable, and the landlord failed to address the issue.

Potential Outcomes

  1. Landlord Wins:
    • The court issues a Judgment of Possession, allowing the landlord to proceed with obtaining a Writ of Possession.
    • The tenant may also be ordered to pay unpaid rent, court costs, or attorney fees (if allowed under the lease agreement).
  2. Tenant Wins:
    • The court dismisses the case, and the tenant retains possession of the property.
    • The landlord may be ordered to cover the tenant’s court costs in some cases.

Tips for a Successful Hearing

  • Organize all documentation and ensure it is admissible in court.
  • Hire an attorney for complex cases or if the tenant raises strong defenses.
  • Remain professional and stick to the facts during testimony.

Court proceedings are a critical step in the eviction process. Proper preparation and understanding of legal procedures can significantly improve a landlord's chances of success.

Post-Judgment Process

If the court rules in favor of the landlord, the next step is to enforce the judgment and regain possession of the rental property.

This stage involves obtaining a Writ of Possession and coordinating with law enforcement to remove the tenant if they do not vacate voluntarily.

Obtaining a Writ of Possession

  • What is a Writ of Possession? A Writ of Possession is a court order that authorizes law enforcement to carry out the eviction and return possession of the property to the landlord.
  • How to Request a Writ: Landlords must file a request for the writ with the court after receiving a Judgment of Possession.
    • Filing fees for the writ typically range from $25 to $40.
    • The court may issue the writ on the same day or within a few days, depending on the county.

Serving the Writ

  • Sheriff’s Role: The sheriff or marshal serves the tenant with a Notice to Vacate, which gives the tenant 5 days to leave the property voluntarily.
  • What Happens Next: If the tenant does not vacate within 5 days, the sheriff will schedule a physical eviction and forcibly remove the tenant.
    • The landlord is typically notified in advance of the scheduled eviction date to coordinate access to the property.

Handling Tenant Belongings

California law has specific rules for dealing with personal property left behind by tenants:

  • Inventory and Storage: Landlords are required to store abandoned property safely and provide written notice to the tenant, detailing how they can retrieve their belongings.
  • Disposal of Property: If the tenant does not claim their items within a specified period (typically 18 days), landlords may sell, donate, or dispose of the property. Proceeds from any sale must first cover storage costs, with remaining funds sent to the tenant.

Tenant Appeals and Stay of Execution

  • Stay of Execution: Tenants can request a Stay of Execution to delay eviction, typically for up to 40 days. Courts may grant this if tenants provide valid reasons and agree to pay rent during the extended stay.
  • Appeals Process: Tenants may appeal the court’s decision, but this is uncommon and generally requires strong evidence of procedural errors or legal violations during the trial.

Final Steps for Landlord to Regain Possession

  • Once the tenant vacates, the landlord regains legal possession of the property.
  • Conduct a thorough inspection to document the property’s condition and address any necessary repairs before re-renting.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

  • Rushing the Process: Attempting to change locks or remove belongings without following legal procedures can lead to penalties or lawsuits.
  • Failing to Follow Storage Requirements: Mishandling abandoned property may result in financial liability for landlords.

The post-judgment process marks the final stage of the eviction. By adhering to legal requirements and coordinating with law enforcement, landlords can ensure a smooth transition back to possession of their rental property.

California Eviction Timeline

The California eviction process involves multiple steps, each with its own timeframe. While the total duration can vary depending on tenant responses, court availability, and local laws, the following is a general overview of the eviction timeline:

<table style="width:100%"><tr><th>Stage</th><th>Timeframe</th><th>Key Details</th></tr><tr><td>Serving the Eviction Notice</td><td>3–60 days (based on notice type)</td><td>- 3-Day Notice: Non-payment of rent or lease violations.</br>- 30-60 Day Notice: For no-fault evictions.</td></tr><tr><td>Filing the Unlawful Detainer</td><td>After notice period ends</td><td>Landlords can file if the tenant fails to comply with the notice.</td></tr><tr><td>Serving the Lawsuit</td><td>1–5 days after filing</td><td>The tenant must be served with the Summons and Complaint.</td></tr><tr><td>Tenant’s Response</td><td>10 business days</td><td>Tenants have 10 business days to file a response (extended from 5 under AB 2347).</td></tr><tr><td>Request for Hearing or Default</td><td>Within 5–20 days after tenant response</td><td>- If the tenant does not respond: Landlord can request a default judgment. </br>- If the tenant responds: A hearing or trial is scheduled.</td></tr><tr><td>Court Hearing or Trial</td><td>Within 20 days of tenant’s response</td><td>Both parties present their case. The judge decides whether to issue a Judgment of Possession.</td></tr><tr><td>Issuing the Writ of Possession</td><td>1–5 days after the court judgment</td><td>The landlord files for a Writ of Possession to authorize the sheriff to evict.</td></tr><tr><td>Serving the Writ of Possession</td><td>5 days</td><td>The sheriff serves the tenant with a 5-Day Notice to Vacate.</td></tr><tr><td>Physical Eviction</td><td>After 5-day notice expires</td><td>If the tenant has not vacated, the sheriff will forcibly remove them.</td></tr></table>

Summary of Key Timelines

  • Shortest Possible Timeline: ~30–45 days if the tenant does not contest the eviction.
  • Average Timeline: 60–90 days, factoring in tenant responses, court delays, and sheriff availability.
  • Extended Timeline: 3–6 months if the tenant appeals, requests a Stay of Execution, or legal complexities arise.

Costs Associated with a California Eviction

The eviction process in California can be both time-consuming and costly. Beyond the obvious financial burden of lost rent, landlords must account for court fees, legal representation, and potential property damage.

Understanding these costs upfront helps landlords plan effectively and minimize losses.

Filing Fees

  • Filing an Unlawful Detainer lawsuit in California typically costs between $385 and $435, depending on the county and the size of the claim.
  • Additional costs may include:
    • Writ of Possession: $25–$40 for issuance by the court.
    • Sheriff Fees: $100–$150 to enforce the eviction and remove the tenant.

Legal Representation

While landlords are not legally required to hire an attorney, professional legal representation can be invaluable, especially for complex cases or when tenants contest the eviction.

  • Attorney Fees: Range from $500 to $2,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the case and whether a trial is required.

Process Server Fees

  • Serving the tenant with the Summons and Complaint is a critical step. Process servers typically charge between $50 and $200, depending on the method and number of attempts required.

Lost Rent

Lost rental income is often the largest cost associated with evictions. The process can take anywhere from 30 to 90 days or longer, during which landlords typically receive no rent payments.

  • Tip: Factor in rental losses early, and consider requiring larger security deposits or implementing strict tenant screening procedures to minimize risk.

Property Damage

Tenants facing eviction may neglect or intentionally damage the property, leaving landlords with repair and cleaning expenses.

Examples of common damages include:

  • Broken fixtures or appliances.
  • Holes in walls, damaged flooring, or vandalism.
  • Excessive debris or garbage left behind.

Storage and Disposal of Tenant Belongings

Under California law, landlords must store any personal property left behind by the tenant for at least 18 days and notify the tenant. If unclaimed, the landlord may dispose of the items or sell them to recover costs.

  • Storage fees and disposal expenses can add to the overall cost of the eviction.

Summary of Eviction Costs

<table style="width:100%"><tr><th>Expense Type</th><th>Estimated Cost</th></tr><tr><td>Filing Fees</td><td>$385–$435</td></tr><tr><td>Writ of Possession</td><td>$25–$40</td></tr><tr><td>Sheriff Fees</td><td>$100–$150</td></tr><tr><td>Process Server Fees</td><td>$50–$200</td></tr><tr><td>Attorney Fees</td><td>$500–$2,000+</td></tr><tr><td>Lost Rent</td><td>Varies (1–3 months or more)</td></tr><tr><td>Property Damage</td><td>Varies (case-specific)</td></tr><tr><td>Storage/Disposal of Property</td><td>Case-specific costs</td></tr></table>

Tips for Managing Eviction Costs

  • Preventive Measures:
    • Thorough tenant screening can reduce the risk of eviction. Look for tenants with stable income, good credit, and positive rental history.
  • Early Resolution:
    • Consider offering “cash for keys” agreements to encourage tenants to vacate voluntarily, avoiding the full eviction process.
  • Property Management Software:
    • Tools like DoorLoop can help track rent payments, manage leases, and provide organized records to minimize legal costs during disputes.

While evictions are sometimes unavoidable, understanding the full scope of costs helps landlords make informed decisions and protect their investments.

Tips for Avoiding Common Mistakes

The eviction process in California is complex, and even minor errors can result in delays, added costs, or dismissal of your case. To protect your rights and ensure a smooth eviction, landlords must be aware of and avoid the most common pitfalls.

Serving Improper or Incomplete Notices
Using the wrong notice type, failing to include required details, or improperly serving the notice can invalidate the eviction process.

  • Solution: Use legally approved templates for eviction notices. Clearly state the reason for eviction, the timeframe to comply, and the tenant’s options. Follow one of the approved methods of serving notices: personal service, substituted service, or posting and mailing.

Skipping Steps or Rushing the Process
Attempting to bypass any legal steps, such as failing to serve proper notices or filing the lawsuit too soon, can lead to case dismissal.

  • Solution: Strictly adhere to the legal timeline and requirements for each step of the eviction process. Document every action taken, from serving notices to filing court paperwork.

Mishandling Tenant Belongings
Removing or disposing of a tenant’s property before following California’s legal storage and notification requirements can expose landlords to liability.

  • Solution: If tenants leave belongings behind, inventory the items, store them safely, and provide written notice. Follow California’s 18-day rule before selling, donating, or disposing of unclaimed property.

Ignoring Local Ordinances and Updates
Overlooking city- or county-specific eviction laws, including rent control ordinances and tenant protections, can result in penalties.

  • Solution: Research local laws in addition to statewide regulations. Cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Oakland often have stricter eviction rules. Stay informed about changes to California eviction laws, such as AB 2347 or SB 567.

Attempting Self-Help Evictions
Actions like changing locks, shutting off utilities, or harassing the tenant are illegal and can lead to significant penalties.

  • Solution: Follow the proper legal channels for eviction. Only a sheriff or marshal can physically remove the tenant after a Writ of Possession has been issued. Avoid any actions that could be seen as retaliatory or unlawful.

Inadequate Documentation
Failing to maintain thorough records of lease agreements, notices, rent payments, or tenant communications weakens your case in court.

  • Solution: Keep organized and detailed documentation for every stage of the tenancy and eviction process. Use property management software to centralize records, including photos, videos, and financial documents.

Not Preparing for Court
Arriving at court without sufficient evidence, such as lease agreements, payment records, or proof of notice delivery, can jeopardize your case.

  • Solution: Collect all necessary documents and evidence before the hearing. Be professional and stick to the facts when presenting your case. Consider hiring an attorney for contested or complex evictions.

Conclusion

Navigating the California eviction process requires careful attention to legal procedures, timelines, and tenant protections. From serving the correct notices to filing an Unlawful Detainer lawsuit and enforcing a court judgment, every step must be executed with precision to avoid costly delays or dismissals.

By understanding valid reasons for eviction, staying updated on recent legal changes, and maintaining thorough documentation, landlords can protect their investments while complying with California’s strict eviction laws. Additionally, avoiding common mistakes—such as mishandling notices or attempting self-help evictions—can streamline the process and minimize risks.

For landlords looking to simplify eviction management and stay organized, DoorLoop offers an all-in-one software that centralizes lease management, tenant screening, and record-keeping.

While evictions are often a last resort, proper preparation and adherence to legal requirements empower landlords and property managers to resolve disputes efficiently and regain control of the property.

Landlord eviction guide

Sources

  1. The California Eviction Process: Cost & Steps UPDATED 2024
    This source provides a comprehensive overview of the eviction process in California, detailing the steps involved and associated costs.
  2. Bill Text - AB-2347 Summary proceedings for obtaining possession of real property
    This legislative document outlines the specifics of Assembly Bill 2347, which extends the time tenants have to respond to an Unlawful Detainer lawsuit from 5 to 10 days, effective January 1, 2025.
  3. The eviction process for landlords | California Courts | Self Help Guide
    This guide from the California Courts offers step-by-step instructions for landlords on the eviction process, including how to serve notices and what to expect during court proceedings.
  4. New California Landlord-Tenant Law: Extended Response Times and Oral Hearings
    This article discusses the implications of Assembly Bill 2347, highlighting the extended response times for tenants and the introduction of oral hearings in the eviction process.
  5. California Eviction Timeline: Steps and Costs Involved 2024
    This resource provides a detailed timeline of the eviction process in California, outlining each step and the associated costs landlords may encounter.
  6. AB 2347 Will Give Defendants More Time to Respond to Eviction Lawsuits
    This publication explains the changes brought about by AB 2347, emphasizing the extended response period for tenants in eviction proceedings and its impact on landlords.
  7. AB 2347 gives tenants more time to respond to eviction actions
    This source discusses the legislative changes introduced by AB 2347, focusing on the extended response times for tenants and the procedural revisions in unlawful detainer proceedings.
  8. California Eviction Process (2024): Grounds, Steps & Timeline
    This resource outlines the grounds for eviction in California, the steps involved in the process, and the expected timelines for each stage.
  9. California AB 2347’s Impact on Unlawful Detainer Actions
    This article analyzes the impact of Assembly Bill 2347 on the eviction process, detailing the adjustments to procedural timelines in unlawful detainer actions.
  10. AB-2347: A New Setback for California Landlords - Real Estate Law
    This publication discusses the challenges posed by AB 2347 for California landlords, particularly the extended response times for tenants in eviction cases.

FAQs

Which eviction methods are illegal in California?

  1. Habitability Violations: If the property does not meet California's habitability standards—such as having issues with plumbing, heating, or structural safety—tenants can legally withhold rent. Evicting a tenant in this case is considered illegal.
  2. Retaliatory Evictions: A landlord cannot evict a tenant for filing complaints about the property, reporting code violations, or exercising their legal rights.
  3. Tenant Union Support: It is illegal to evict tenants for joining, organizing, or supporting a tenants’ union.

Can I force a tenant to move out in California?

No, landlords cannot force tenants to move out. Under California law, landlords must follow the legal eviction process, which includes providing a proper written notice and obtaining a court order. Any attempt to evict a tenant without following due process—such as changing locks or shutting off utilities—is illegal and can lead to penalties.

What is a self-help eviction in California?

A self-help eviction occurs when a landlord tries to force a tenant to move out without going through the legal process. Examples of illegal self-help evictions include:

  • Changing the locks
  • Removing the tenant’s belongings
  • Taking off doors or windows
  • Turning off essential utilities like heat, water, or electricity

California law prohibits self-help evictions. Tenants who face these actions may sue the landlord for damages, court costs, and attorney fees. In some cases, tenants may also have the right to remain in the rental unit.

What are the penalties for a self-help eviction in California?

Landlords who attempt illegal self-help evictions can face significant penalties, including:

  • Paying damages to the tenant, which may include emotional distress or the cost of temporary housing
  • Covering the tenant’s court costs and attorney fees if the tenant sues successfully
  • Potential fines or additional penalties, depending on the severity of the violation

In some cases, the tenant may also have the legal right to remain in the rental unit. California courts take self-help evictions seriously, so landlords must always follow proper legal procedures.

Free Downloads

David is the co-founder & Head of Special Projects of DoorLoop, a best-selling author, legal CLE speaker, and real estate investor. When he's not hanging with his three children, he's writing articles here!