Tenant Rights Guide
Security deposit laws, repair deadlines, and your legal rights as a California tenant — with a free demand letter generator.
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Security Deposit Deadline
21 days
California Civil Code § 1950.5
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Penalty for Late Return
Up to 2x the deposit amount
If landlord misses deadline
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Repair Deadline
30 days (emergencies: 24–72 hours)
California Civil Code § 1941
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Notice Required
Written notice via text, email, or certified letter
To trigger legal deadlines
| Issue | Deadline | Law |
|---|---|---|
| Security Deposit Return | 21 days | California Civil Code § 1950.5 |
| General Repairs | 30 days (emergencies: 24–72 hours) | California Civil Code § 1941 |
| Heat & Hot Water | Emergency — 24–72 hours | California Civil Code § 1941.1 |
| Written Notice Required | Written notice via text, email, or certified letter | Required to trigger deadlines |
With California Civil Code § 1950.5 and California Civil Code § 1941 automatically included. Free to start.