Unlawful Detainer Laws

A landlord may legally remove a tenant by filing a lawsuit known as an illegal detainer. When a tenant has lost the right to occupy a property, the landlord may file an illegal detainer to force the renter out.
Unlawful detainer notices may be served for a variety of reasons, including the following:
✔ Staying on after the lease has expired (also known as "holding over")
✔ Bringing a pet to an apartment where animals are prohibited
✔ Not paying rent when due
✔ Not paying other payments when due
✔ Causing property damage ✔ Endangering or disturbing other tenants
✔ Engaging in unlawful activities in your unit
✔ Any other breach of the lease agreement

In order to file an illegal detainer case for rent nonpayment, a landlord must prove the following:
✔ The tenant is in possession of the property without authorization;
✔ The tenant is behind on rent payments;
✔ The tenant has been provided with a written three-day notice;
✔ The tenant has not remedied the default by the end of that time.

Other than rent payments, reasons for filing an unlawful detainer include the tenant's destruction of property or unauthorized occupancy.
When a landlord proves illegal detainer, the law allows the landlord to reclaim ownership of the property and any back rent that may be owed.
❓ California landlords are liable for what?
You can sue your landlord for not returning your security deposit, not making repairs, or violating your tenant rights.
❓ California landlord lawsuits: Why?
If your landlord is breaching your rights or not meeting their obligations, you may need to sue.
❓ Can California tenants sue landlords for mental distress?
If a landlord causes serious emotional anguish, a tenant can sue for emotional distress.
❓ How to sue my California landlord for dangerous housing?
In small claims court, you can sue your landlord for unsafe living circumstances.
You'll need proof of harmful circumstances and landlord communication.
❓ What are tenants rights in California?.
Tenant Rights and Responsibilities: According to California landlord-tenant laws.
* Tenants have the right to live in safe, habitable rental units, as well as sue the landlord for retaliation, withhold rent for failure to provide essential services, recover attorney's fees, and more.