California Security Deposit Limits
California law strictly limits how much a landlord can charge for a security deposit. For unfurnished units, the limit is one month's rent. For furnished units, the limit is two months' rent. This applies regardless of what the lease says — if the lease requires more, it's unenforceable. Additionally, California classifies deposits carefully: a "security deposit" must be returned after the lease, while landlords cannot charge "non-refundable fees" for cleaning or damage (these are treated as disguised deposits and must be refundable). Common illegal practices include: (1) charging "non-refundable cleaning fees," (2) charging "non-refundable pet fees," (3) charging deposits exceeding the statutory limit. If a landlord violates security deposit laws, you can sue for the deposit amount plus punitive damages (two months' rent as damages). Know your rights.
Rent Increase Protections
California recently enacted strong rent increase protections. Landlords cannot raise rent more than 5% + local inflation (capped at 10% maximum) per year. Additionally, landlords must provide 30 days notice for increases under 10%, or 60 days notice for increases 10% or higher. For the first three years of tenancy, annual increases are capped at 3% + local inflation. These protections apply to most residential units (exceptions: newly constructed units, single-family homes rented by owner, units where owner resides). If a landlord raises your rent in violation of these limits or without proper notice, the increase is unenforceable and you should refuse to pay it.
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California requires rental units to meet minimum habitability standards. Landlords must provide and maintain: (1) Safe, weatherproof structure, (2) Working plumbing, (3) Hot and cold running water, (4) Heating/cooling systems, (5) Electrical systems, (6) Windows and doors in working condition, (7) Locks on doors and windows, (8) Clean, sanitary conditions. If a unit violates habitability standards, tenants can withhold rent (with court approval), repair-and-deduct (make repairs yourself and deduct from rent), or break the lease without penalty. Landlords cannot charge for repairs mandated by habitability law — that's their responsibility.
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SaferLease provides AI-powered informational analysis and is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice.