California Just-Cause Eviction Required Statewide

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.

Wrongful eviction exposes landlords to actual damages, statutory damages up to $2,000, and attorney fees; tenants may seek injunctive relief.