California Landlord Essentials
A practical, plain-English course for California rental property owners. You’ll learn how to serve valid notices, comply with the Tenant Protection Act’s just-cause and rent cap rules, handle security deposits correctly, and understand each step of the unlawful detainer (eviction) process. This course is educational only and is not legal advice.
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Lesson 1: The 3-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Quit
What a valid 3-day notice must include under Code of Civil Procedure section 1161(2), how to calculate the deadline, and the service mistakes that get eviction cases dismissed.
What a valid 3-day notice must include under Code of Civil Procedure section 1161(2), how to calculate the deadline, and the service mistakes that get eviction cases dismissed.
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Lesson 2: 30-, 60- and 90-Day Termination Notices
When each notice period applies under Civil Code sections 1946 and 1946.1, how local ordinances and Section 8 tenancies change the timeline, and how to serve the notice correctly.
When each notice period applies under Civil Code sections 1946 and 1946.1, how local ordinances and Section 8 tenancies change the timeline, and how to serve the notice correctly.
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Lesson 1: Just Cause and Rent Caps Under AB 1482
How the Tenant Protection Act (Civil Code sections 1946.2 and 1947.12) limits rent increases and terminations, which properties are exempt, and the required exemption and relocation notices.
How the Tenant Protection Act (Civil Code sections 1946.2 and 1947.12) limits rent increases and terminations, which properties are exempt, and the required exemption and relocation notices.
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Lesson 1: Security Deposits Done Right
Deposit limits, move-in and move-out photo requirements, the 21-day itemized statement, and allowable deductions under Civil Code section 1950.5.
Deposit limits, move-in and move-out photo requirements, the 21-day itemized statement, and allowable deductions under Civil Code section 1950.5.
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Lesson 2: The Unlawful Detainer Process, Start to Finish
From filing the complaint to the sheriff lockout: summons and service, the tenant’s 10-court-day response window (CCP section 1167), default versus trial, judgment, and the writ of possession.
From filing the complaint to the sheriff lockout: summons and service, the tenant’s 10-court-day response window (CCP section 1167), default versus trial, judgment, and the writ of possession.
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What You'll Learn
Avoid Costly Mistakes
A single defect in a notice can restart an eviction from day one. Learn the requirements courts check first so your paperwork holds up.
Know the Current Rules
California landlord-tenant law changes every year. Each lesson cites the governing statute and flags local rent control rules that may add requirements.
Protect Your Investment
Walk away with checklists and step-by-step timelines you can use to manage your properties, and know when it is time to call an attorney.