Just cause eviction rules in San Diego, CA — sometimes called tenant protection or "for cause" eviction ordinances — list the specific legal reasons a landlord can end a tenancy.
SDMC §98.0704 prohibits landlords from terminating tenancy without just cause, effective immediately upon commencement of tenancy. At-fault causes include nonpayment of rent, lease violations, nuisance, property damage, refusal to renew lease, and criminal activity. No-fault causes include owner move-in, family member move-in, withdrawal from rental market, and substantial remodel. Wrongful eviction penalties include 3x actual economic damages. Landlords must register termination notices with the San Diego Housing Commission within 3 business days.
San Diego may enforce just cause eviction protections that require landlords to have a legitimate reason to evict tenants. Valid causes typically include non-payment of rent, lease violations, nuisance behavior, illegal activity, owner move-in, and substantial renovation requiring vacancy. No-fault evictions for owner move-in or renovation may require relocation assistance payments. Tenants have the right to contest evictions in court. Just cause requirements often apply after a tenant has occupied the unit for a minimum period, typically 12 months.
Wrongful eviction: tenant may sue for damages and relocation costs. No-fault eviction without relocation payment: fines $5,000 to $15,000. Retaliatory eviction: treble damages possible.
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