California Statewide Rule
California Just-Cause Eviction Required Statewide
Key Facts
- Statute
- Civil Code 1946.2
- Trigger
- 12 months tenancy
- Relocation aid
- 1 month rent
- Local floor
- Cities may go stricter
Summary
Civil Code 1946.2 requires landlords statewide to have just cause to terminate tenancies of qualifying tenants who have lived in a covered unit at least 12 months.
Notwithstanding any other law, after a tenant has continuously and lawfully occupied a residential real property for 12 months, the owner of the residential real property shall not terminate a tenancy without just cause, which shall be stated in the written notice to terminate tenancy. If any additional adult tenants are added to the lease before an existing tenant has continuously and lawfully occupied the residential real property for 24 months, then this subdivision shall only apply if either of the following are satisfied:
Full Breakdown
Under AB-1482, Civil Code section 1946.2 requires just cause for terminating tenants who have continuously occupied a covered unit for at least 12 months. At-fault causes include nonpayment, breach, nuisance, and criminal activity. No-fault causes (owner move-in, withdrawal, substantial remodel, government order) require relocation assistance equal to one month's rent or a rent waiver. Exemptions mirror the rent-cap rules, including most owner-occupied duplexes and individually-owned single-family homes. Cities may add stricter just-cause protections.
Violations & Penalties
Wrongful eviction exposes landlords to actual damages and attorney fees, plus up to three times actual damages and punitive damages for willful violations under SB 567 (2023); tenants may also seek injunctive relief.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to give a reason to evict?
What if my city has its own just-cause law?
Sources
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