California Rental Lease Laws: What Your Lease Can and Can't Say

California lease law FAQ

How much can a landlord charge for a security deposit in California?

California generally limits security deposits to 1 month's rent (most landlords). Conditions can apply — see the California security deposit limit guide for details.

How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit in California?

Generally 21 days after move-out. Conditions can apply — see the California deposit return deadline guide for details.

Do landlords have to pay interest on security deposits in California?

No statewide statute requires it in California, though local ordinances or your lease can add the obligation. Conditions can apply — see the California deposit interest rules guide for details.

How much notice does a landlord need to enter my apartment in California?

Generally at least 24 hours. Conditions can apply — see the California landlord entry notice guide for details.

Is there a limit on late fees in California?

California sets no fixed percentage cap, but late fees must be reasonable and can be challenged if punitive. Conditions can apply — see the California late fee laws guide for details.

How many days late can rent be before fees in California?

There is no statutory grace period in California; rent is late the day after it is due unless your lease says otherwise. Conditions can apply — see the California rent grace period guide for details.

What lease clauses are illegal in California?

California law restricts 7 clause types tracked in our database, such as: waiver of right to jury trial; waiver of implied warranty of habitability; waiver of legal rights or remedies.

What disclosures must a landlord provide in California?

California requires: Lead Paint (Disclosure of known lead-based paint hazards for housing built before 1978); Mold (Disclosure of known mold contamination and health risks); Pest Control (Copy of pest control company report if property was inspected); Flooding (Disclosure if property is in a special flood hazard area or has flooded); Demolition Intent (Disclosure if landlord has applied for permit to demolish the unit); Bed Bugs (Disclosure of known bed bug infestation history); Death on Property (Disclosure of any death on the property within the last 3 years); Military Ordnance (Disclosure if property is near former military ordnance location).