California Tenant Calculators
Important: California law requires landlords to return security deposits within 21 days of move-out (Civil Code 1950.5). As of 2026, AB 414 now allows electronic deposit returns with tenant consent. For habitability issues, tenants must generally give landlords 30 days to make repairs before exercising "repair and deduct" rights. Under AB 628 (2026), landlords must also keep all provided appliances in working order. These calculators provide estimates - consult an attorney for your specific situation.
2026 California Landlord-Tenant Law Updates
AB 1482 (Tenant Protection Act) Sunset Approaching Mid-2026
The Tenant Protection Act of 2019 -- which caps annual rent increases at 5% + CPI (max 10%) and requires just-cause eviction for tenancies over 12 months -- is set to expire in 2030, but key enforcement provisions face a mid-2026 legislative review. If you rely on AB 1482 rent caps or just-cause protections, monitor this closely. Landlords may attempt preemptive rent increases or no-cause terminations in anticipation. Document all rent increase notices and keep records of your tenancy length.
Landlords may now return security deposits electronically (e.g., direct deposit, Zelle, Venmo) if the tenant agrees in writing. The 21-day return deadline still applies. Tenants can still request a physical check.
Landlords are now explicitly required to maintain all provided appliances (refrigerator, stove, dishwasher, washer/dryer, etc.) in good working order throughout the tenancy. This codifies what many courts already recognized under the implied warranty of habitability.
Extends anti-price-gouging protections for tenants in disaster-declared areas. Landlords cannot raise rent beyond pre-disaster levels for an extended period after a state or local emergency declaration. Covers wildfire, earthquake, and flood zones.
Provides additional rent protections for tenants receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Landlords with covered properties cannot impose rent increases that would cause SSI recipients to pay more than a defined percentage of their income.
Tenants can now opt out of internet service that is bundled into their rent. Landlords who include internet as part of the rent must allow tenants to decline and receive a corresponding rent reduction. This applies to new and renewed leases.
The Tenant Protection Act caps rent increases at 5% + local CPI (max 10%) and requires just-cause for evictions of tenants with 12+ months of tenancy. Legislative review in mid-2026 may modify or extend these protections. This affects millions of California renters.
Stay informed: These 2026 law summaries are for general informational purposes. Bills may have specific effective dates, exemptions, and applicability rules. Always verify the current status of legislation at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov and consult an attorney for advice specific to your situation.
California Tenant Demand Letters
Professional demand letter templates based on California Civil Code. Click to access the full template with generator.
Landlord illegally shut off utilities? Demand restoration and damages under CA Civil Code 789.3.
Generate Letter →Locked out without proper eviction? Demand re-entry and statutory damages.
Generate Letter →Mold in your rental causing health issues? Demand remediation and rent reduction.
Generate Letter →Unit not habitable? Demand repairs under California's implied warranty of habitability.
Generate Letter →Roaches, bedbugs, or rodents? Demand immediate pest control and compensation.
Generate Letter →Landlord failing to address noise issues? Demand action under covenant of quiet enjoyment.
Generate Letter →Landlord entered without notice? Demand compliance with CA Civil Code 1954.
Generate Letter →21 days passed without your deposit? Generate a formal demand letter.
Generate Letter →When Your Landlord Pushes Back
Select the scenario that matches your situation to get a customized response strategy and template.
Response Strategy
Statute of Limitations: Security deposit claims must generally be filed within 4 years (breach of contract) or 2 years (bad faith). Habitability claims typically have a 2-year limit. Document everything and act promptly to preserve your rights.
Need Help With Your California Tenant Dispute?
These calculators and templates are starting points. For complex situations involving significant damages, retaliatory eviction threats, or landlords who refuse to respond, consulting with a California attorney can significantly strengthen your position.
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