California · Step-by-step guide
How to sign a compliant California lease.
A practical walkthrough of the six things a California landlord must get right, in order, before and after signing.
Start My California Lease →1. Confirm the deposit cap
1 month's rent (effective July 2024, AB 12). Statutory cite: Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5 (AB 12).
2. Set late-fee terms correctly
Must reflect actual damages; flat fees often challenged Landlords generally must allow a 3-day grace period before assessing it.
3. Plan entry notice
Give at least 24 hours' notice before entering the unit outside an emergency.
4. Give correct termination notice
30 or 60 days (depending on tenancy length) for a month-to-month tenancy.
5. Attach every required disclosure
Lead-based paint, Mold, Megan's Law, Bedbug, Flood hazard, Demolition, Death on property (3 years), Pest control.
6. Return the deposit on time
21 days. Statutory cite: Cal. Civ. Code § 1950.5 (AB 12).
California guide FAQs
- What order should a California landlord follow before signing a lease?
- Confirm the deposit cap, set a compliant late fee, plan entry-notice language, set the correct termination notice, attach every required disclosure, and confirm the deposit-return timeline — in that order.
- Where can I find the full list of California required disclosures?
- See the full disclosure list on the California state page, or browse disclosure requirements by topic across all states.