Just Cause Eviction: Fairfield vs Vallejo

Does my Fairfield landlord need a reason to evict me?

Yes, if your tenancy is covered by AB 1482 (Civil Code §1946.2) and you have lived there for 12 months or more. The landlord must state either an 'at-fault' cause (nonpayment, lease breach, nuisance, etc.) or a 'no-fault' cause (owner move-in, Ellis Act withdrawal, substantial remodel, or government order). No-fault evictions require one month's rent in relocation assistance. Single-family homes and condos owned by natural persons with the statutory exemption notice in the lease are exempt and subject only to standard 30/60-day no-cause termination.

What relocation assistance is required for a no-fault eviction?

Under Civil Code §1946.2(d), the landlord must provide an amount equal to one month of the most recent monthly rent, paid to the tenant within 15 calendar days of service of the notice, OR alternatively the landlord may waive the final month's rent in writing in the notice. The relocation assistance applies to all tenants in the unit collectively, not per person. Failure to pay or properly waive voids the notice and any unlawful detainer based on it.

Can my landlord evict me without a reason?

In units covered by just cause protections, no. Landlords must have a valid reason. Check if your unit is covered under Vallejo or state just cause requirements.

What is a self-help eviction?

When a landlord tries to force a tenant out by changing locks, removing doors, shutting off utilities, or removing belongings. This is illegal everywhere and tenants can sue for damages.