California Civil Code § 1954 limits when a landlord may enter a rented home. Except in emergencies, abandonment, or with tenant consent, the landlord must give reasonable written notice (24 hours is presumed reasonable) and may enter only during normal business hours, for specific permitted reasons such as repairs, inspections, or showings.
Civil Code § 1954 lets a landlord enter only to address an emergency, make "necessary or agreed repairs, decorations, alterations or improvements," supply agreed services, show the unit to prospective tenants or buyers, conduct a move-out inspection, or under court order or after abandonment. Except for emergencies or consent at the time of entry, "the landlord shall give the tenant reasonable notice in writing of his or her intent to enter and enter only during normal business hours." Personally delivered or posted notice 24 hours before entry is presumed reasonable; mailed notice is presumed reasonable if sent at least six days prior. The notice must state "the date, approximate time, and purpose of the entry."
A landlord who enters without proper notice or for an improper purpose may be liable for invasion of privacy, trespass, or breach of quiet enjoyment. Repeated entries used to harass a tenant can support damages and statutory penalties.
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