There are a few specificities to be careful of when creating a California lease agreement.
California law sets strict rules on considerations for landlords that you must follow.
Security Deposits
In unfurnished properties, landlords can demand no more than 2 months’ rent as a security deposit. This rises to 3 months if the property is furnished (CA CIV § 1950.5 (c) (1)).
At the end of the lease if the tenant complies with the lease’s terms when vacating the property the landlord must return the security deposit within 21 days of them moving out (CA CIV § 1950.5 (g) (1-3)).
Landlord’s Right to Enter
Landlords can enter the rental property by giving 24 hours’ advance notice (a written notice is recommended) ([CA CIV § 1954(d)(1)). ](http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=CIV§ionNum=1954. CIV § 1954(d)(1)).|_blank)
However, 48 hours’ notice is required before the landlord may enter to give the final inspection before the tenant moves out (CA CIV § 1950.5(f)(1)).
Late Fees
In California any late fee that you charge must be considered “reasonable”. A fee of 5% of the monthly rent is considered the maximum in Los Angeles County (CA CIV § 1671).
A non-sufficient funds (NSF) fee is set at $25 for the first bounced check and $35 for any bounced check afterward (CA CIV § 1719).
Warranty of Habitability
Landlords are required to keep their rental properties in livable condition. This must always be followed whether your agreement has included this warranty or not (CA CIV § 1941.1).