What a Landlord Cannot Do in California: Legal Limits

Renting a home in California can feel overwhelming, especially when the balance of power seems tilted toward landlords. Many tenants silently endure illegal rent hikes, sudden entry, ignored repairs, or pressure to move out fast. According to tenant protection data referenced under the California Department of Consumer Affairs and the California Civil Code, thousands of renter complaints are filed each year over unlawful evictions, privacy violations, and habitability issues. These situations often leave tenants stressed, financially strained, and unsure of their rights. That is why understanding what a landlord cannot do in California is not just helpful, it is essential for protecting your home, peace of mind, and legal standing.

At the same time, many renters still ask critical questions but struggle to find clear answers online. Confusion grows when landlords sound confident, legal terms feel complex, and time-sensitive decisions must be made quickly. Common questions include:

• Can a landlord enter my apartment without notice in California?
• Is my landlord allowed to raise rent anytime they want?
• Can repairs be delayed even when the home feels unsafe?
• What actions count as harassment or illegal eviction?
• When does a landlord cross the legal line?

This page was created to remove that confusion. Platuni breaks down what a landlord cannot do in California in clear, simple language backed by real legal standards. Each section explains your rights, the limits landlords must respect, and the practical steps tenants can take when those limits are violated. As a trusted legal information brand, Platuni helps renters stay informed, confident, and protected, turning uncertainty into clarity and problems into solutions.

Also See: What a Landlord Cannot Do in Florida: Legal Rules

What a Landlord Cannot Do in California

#1. Enter the Rental Unit Without Proper Notice

Landlords in California cannot enter a tenant’s home whenever they want. State law protects a tenant’s right to privacy. Entry is only allowed for valid reasons such as repairs, inspections, or showing the unit to future tenants, and proper notice is required.

Under California Civil Code §1954, landlords must usually give at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering. The notice should clearly state the reason, date, and approximate time of entry. Emergency situations like fire, flooding, or gas leaks are the only times entry is allowed without notice.

What is not allowed

• Random or frequent visits without notice
• Entry meant to intimidate or pressure a tenant
• Using a master key without legal justification

Tenants experiencing unlawful entry can report the issue or seek guidance from the California Department of Consumer Affairs.

#2. Evict a Tenant Without Legal Cause or Due Process

A landlord cannot force a tenant out without following California’s strict eviction process. Self-help evictions are illegal, even when rent is overdue.

California law requires a valid legal reason and a court order before eviction can happen. Locking a tenant out, removing doors, or shutting off utilities is against the law.

Under the Tenant Protection Act of 2019 (AB 1482), many tenants are protected from eviction without “just cause” after living in a unit for 12 months.

Illegal eviction actions include

• Changing locks
• Shutting off water or electricity
• Removing tenant belongings without a court judgment

Evictions must go through the local court system, with oversight from California’s judicial process.

Also Read: Landlord Rights in Washington State: Legal Overview

#3. Raise Rent Unlawfully

Landlords in California cannot raise rent without limits or proper notice. State law caps rent increases for many residential properties.

The Tenant Protection Act (AB 1482) limits annual rent increases to 5% plus local inflation, with a maximum cap of 10% per year. Proper written notice is also required before any increase takes effect.

Rent increases are illegal when

• The increase exceeds legal caps
• Required notice is not given
• The increase is used as retaliation

Tenants can confirm rent rules with local housing authorities or the California Department of Consumer Affairs.Source: 

#4. Discriminate Against Tenants

Landlords in California must treat all tenants fairly. Housing discrimination is illegal under both state and federal law. Decisions about renting, lease terms, or services cannot be based on personal characteristics protected by law.

The Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and the Federal Fair Housing Act protect tenants from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, family status, national origin, and other protected traits.

Illegal actions include

• Refusing to rent or renew a lease
• Charging higher rent or deposits for certain groups
• Harassing or treating tenants differently

Tenants can file complaints with the California Civil Rights Department or the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Also See: Can Landlords Report Tenants to Credit Bureaus?

#5. Ignore Serious Repair and Habitability Issues

California law requires rental homes to be safe and livable at all times. Landlords cannot ignore serious problems that affect health or safety.

Under California Civil Code §§1941–1942, landlords must maintain habitable conditions, including working plumbing, electricity, heating, weatherproofing, and pest-free living spaces.

Common habitability issues

• Water leaks or no running water
• Electrical hazards
• Mold or pest infestations
• Broken doors or windows affecting security

Tenants may request repairs in writing and, if ignored, seek help from local code enforcement or the California Department of Consumer Affairs.

#6. Retaliate Against Tenants for Asserting Legal Rights

Landlords cannot punish tenants for standing up for their legal rights. California law protects tenants who report violations or request lawful repairs.

Under California Civil Code §1942.5, retaliation is illegal when a landlord takes negative action after a tenant exercises a protected right.

Examples of retaliation

• Sudden rent increases after repair requests
• Eviction threats following complaints to authorities
• Reducing services such as parking or utilities

Tenants who face retaliation can challenge these actions in court or report them to housing authorities.

Also See: Are Landlords Responsible for Pest Control in Florida?

#7. Withhold or Misuse a Security Deposit

Landlords in California cannot keep a tenant’s security deposit unfairly. State law strictly limits how deposits can be used and when they must be returned.

Under California Civil Code §1950.5, a security deposit may only cover unpaid rent, repair of damage beyond normal wear and tear, and necessary cleaning. After a tenant moves out, the landlord must return the deposit or provide an itemized written statement within 21 days.

Key legal limits

• Normal wear and tear cannot be charged
• Receipts or estimates must support deductions
• Remaining funds must be refunded on time

Tenants can seek help from the California Department of Consumer Affairs if a deposit is mishandled.

#8. Harass or Intimidate Tenants

California law protects tenants from harassment and intimidation. Landlords cannot use fear, pressure, or repeated disturbances to control or force a tenant to move.

Harassment may include threats, constant calls or messages, abusive language, false eviction notices, or misuse of entry rights. Many local ordinances and state laws treat these actions as serious violations.

Common examples of harassment

• Repeated unannounced visits
• Threats of eviction without legal basis
• Pressure to leave after refusing rent increases

Tenants may report harassment to local housing authorities or the California Civil Rights Department.

#9. Shut Off Utilities or Essential Services

Landlords cannot shut off essential services to force a tenant out. Actions like cutting water, electricity, gas, or heat are illegal and considered a form of self-help eviction.

California law requires landlords to maintain basic services needed for safe and livable housing. Utility shutoffs can expose landlords to lawsuits, fines, and court orders.

Essential services protected by law

• Water and plumbing
• Electricity and gas
• Heating systems

Tenants affected by utility shutoffs can contact local code enforcement or pursue legal action under California Civil Code §§789.3 and 1941.

Also Read: Landlord Responsibilities in New York State: Legal Guide

#10. Enforce Illegal Lease Terms

Landlords cannot enforce lease clauses that break California law. Even if a tenant signed the lease, any terms that violate state or local tenant protections are unenforceable. This includes clauses that attempt to waive tenant rights, allow illegal rent increases, or bypass habitability standards.

Examples of illegal lease terms

• Waiving the right to a habitable living space under California Civil Code §1941
• Requiring tenants to give up rights to sue or report code violations
• Attempting to bypass rent control or eviction laws

Tenants who encounter illegal lease terms can seek guidance from the California Department of Consumer Affairs, local housing authorities, or legal aid organizations. Courts generally side with tenants when lease terms violate state protections. Enforcing only lawful lease provisions ensures fairness and prevents landlords from taking advantage of tenants.

Also See: AI for Rental Properties: Use Cases for Property Owners

Protecting Your Rights as a California Tenant

Understanding what a landlord cannot do in California is key to protecting your home, finances, and peace of mind. State law clearly limits landlord actions on issues such as entry rights, evictions, rent increases, discrimination, repairs, security deposits, harassment, and lease enforcement.

Tenants who know their rights can spot violations early and take action through legal remedies or by contacting regulatory agencies such as the California Department of Consumer Affairs or the California Civil Rights Department.

At Platuni, we are committed to helping tenants navigate California rental laws. Our platform provides clear, practical guidance on tenant protections, ensuring you can live safely and confidently while holding landlords accountable. Staying informed with Platuni empowers you to protect your home and assert your rights under California law.

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