California provides some of the strongest tenant protections in the nation. The Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA, Gov. Code 12900 et seq.) prohibits housing discrimination and is enforced by the Civil Rights Department (CRD). The Tenant Protection Act of 2019 (AB 1482) caps annual rent increases at 5% plus local CPI (max 10%) and requires just cause for eviction statewide. Security deposits are capped at 1 month's rent (effective July 2024). Landlords must give 30 days' notice for tenancies under 1 year, 60 days for longer. Retaliation is presumed if adverse action occurs within 180 days of a tenant's protected activity (Civ. Code 1942.5).
Security Deposit Limit
1 month's rent
Eviction Notice Minimum
30 days
Retaliation Presumption
180 days
Rent Control
Yes (statewide or local)
Cal. Civ. Code § 1942.5
California Civil Code Section 1942.5 provides broad protection against landlord retaliation. A landlord may not retaliate against a tenant for exercising rights under the law, including complaining about habitability issues, reporting code violations, or organizing with other tenants. A rebuttable presumption of retaliation exists if landlord takes adverse action within 180 days of tenant's protected activity.
Missing a deadline can forfeit your legal claim. Know your windows.
| Law / Agency | Deadline | Filed With |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Fair Housing Act (HUD) | 300 days | HUD (via state FHAP agency) |
| Federal Fair Housing Act (Court) | 2 years | Federal or state court |
| CA FEHA Housing | 1 year from the alleged discriminatory act (CRD administrative complaint) | California Civil Rights Department (CRD, formerly DFEH) |
Answer a few questions about your housing situation to see which federal and California state laws may protect you.
Start Free Assessment →Connect with a landlord-tenant attorney in California who can review your case and advise you on next steps.
Find an Attorney →Legal Disclaimer
This page provides general legal information about California tenant rights for educational purposes only. It is not legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created. Laws change frequently; verify current statutes with your state agency or a qualified attorney. If you believe your rights have been violated, consult a licensed landlord-tenant attorney in California.