California landlords must keep rentals fit to live in. Civil Code §§ 1941 and 1941.1, reinforced by Green v. Superior Court, imply a warranty of habitability covering plumbing, heat, water, electricity, and sanitation. If repairs fail after notice, a tenant may repair and deduct up to one month's rent under § 1942 or withhold rent.
Civil Code § 1941 requires a landlord to "put it into a condition fit for such occupation, and repair all subsequent dilapidations... which render it untenantable." Section 1941.1 lists required features: effective waterproofing, working plumbing, hot and cold running water, heating, electrical lighting, sanitary premises free of vermin, and floors, stairways, and railings in good repair. In Green v. Superior Court (1974), the California Supreme Court held this warranty is implied in every residential lease and is a defense to nonpayment. Under § 1942, if the landlord fails to repair within a reasonable time (30 days presumed) after notice, the tenant may repair and deduct the cost, not exceeding "one month's rent," "not... more than twice in any 12-month period."
Breach lets a tenant repair-and-deduct, withhold rent, sue for damages and rent abatement, or raise habitability as a defense in an unlawful detainer. Substandard conditions can also trigger code-enforcement penalties and, in serious cases, civil penalties under tenant-protection statutes.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Chico, CA
A building/zoning permit is generally required in Chico for fences over 6 feet or masonry/retaining walls; pool barrier fences must meet the California Build...
Chico, CA
Chico is a Tree City with a strong tree-preservation ordinance; removing protected or heritage trees, including many on private property, requires a city tre...
Chico, CA
Chico does not ban artificial turf and the City permits it as part of drought-tolerant landscapes. State law (AB 1572, Cal. Water Code §10608.14, eff. 2027) ...
Chico, CA
Under CMC §19.68.050 and §19.68.070, at least 90% of plants in non-turf areas must be suited to Chico's climate and require minimal water once established. S...
Chico, CA
City of Chico parks — including the 3,670-acre Bidwell Park — restrict drone operations under CMC Title 12R; advance written permission is required. CARD-man...
Chico, CA
Commercial drone work in Chico requires an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate; the city does not issue separate commercial UAS permits. Operations on city...
See how Chico's repairs & habitability rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.