California Eviction Laws Every Landlord Needs to Know
Being a landlord in California, especially in Los Angeles, requires navigating a highly tenant-protective legal system filled with complex, overlapping state and local regulations. The statewide Tenant Protection Act of 2019 (AB 1482) enforces rent caps and requires “just cause” for most evictions, while local laws like the City of Los Angeles’ Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO) and Just Cause Ordinance (JCO) often impose even stricter rules. Landlords must be aware of whether their property is exempt, follow detailed notice procedures, and comply with evolving laws such as AB 2347 (extending tenant response times to 10 court days), SB 567 (stricter owner move-in rules), and AB 2081 (security deposit documentation). Missteps at any stage—whether in notice, timing, or compliance—can lead to dismissed cases, delays, and financial losses. To protect their investments and navigate evictions successfully, landlords are strongly advised to seek expert legal guidance.