California Lease Agreement Templates

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What’s Included in California Lease Forms

Lease Template Updated January 18, 2025

A residential lease agreement in California is a vital legal document that clearly defines rental terms, payment details, property rules, and the responsibilities of both landlords and tenants. It protects the landlord's interests while ensuring compliance with California laws.

Our form includes:

Parties Identification

Lease Term

Rent Payment Terms

Security Deposit

Maintenance Responsibilities

State-Specific Disclosures

State-Specific Notices

Disclosures and Addenda for California

These disclosures and addenda ensure compliance with state laws and protect both landlords and tenants.

Disclosure

Landlord's Name and Address <p>Landlords must provide tenants with a written statement detailing the name, address, and telephone number of the person or entity to whom rent payments should be made. Additionally, they must disclose the name, address, and telephone number of the property owner or the owner’s agent.&nbsp;</p>
Lead Paint - Know Presence <p>Applies to units built before 1978 where the presence of lead paint has been confirmed.</p>
Lead Paint - No Know Presence <p>Applies to units where no evidence of lead paint is present or units built after 1978.</p>
Condition of the Premises <p>While not explicitly mandated by California law, it's advisable for landlords to provide a move-in checklist or document the property's condition at the start of the tenancy to ensure fair handling of security deposits upon move-out.</p>
Late/Returned Fees <p>California law permits landlords to charge late fees if they are specified in the rental agreement and are reasonable, generally between 5% to 10% of the monthly rent. For returned checks, landlords can impose a service fee of $25 for the first instance and $35 for subsequent occurrences.</p>
Mold Disclosure <p>Landlords must provide a written disclosure if the property contains mold that exceeds permissible exposure limits or poses a health risk.&nbsp;</p>
Non-Refundable Fees <p>Landlords must clearly disclose any non-refundable fees in the lease agreement to enforce them</p>
Smoking <p>Landlords must disclose the property's smoking policy, specifying where smoking is allowed or prohibited.</p>
Security Deposit Disclosure <p>As of July 1, 2024, California law limits security deposits to one month's rent for most rental properties. This applies to both furnished and unfurnished units, with some exception</p>
Flood Hazard Disclosure <p>Landlords must disclose if the property is in a flood zone designated by FEMA.</p>
Radon Disclosure <p>California does not require radon disclosures. However, if a landlord is aware of elevated radon levels, it is prudent to inform tenants to ensure transparency and safety.</p>
Bed Bugs Disclosure <p>Landlords must provide tenants with general information about bedbugs, including identification, behavior, and the importance of prompt reporting of suspected infestations.&nbsp;</p>

Addenda

Pet Agreement <p>Outline rules regarding pet types, sizes, behavior, and any associated fees or deposits.</p>
Medical Marijuana <p>California law allows the use of medical marijuana; however, landlords can set policies regarding its use on their property, including prohibiting smoking.</p>
Shared Utilities <p>Landlords must disclose how utility costs are allocated among tenants when units share meters.</p>
Carbon Monoxide Alarm <p>California law requires landlords to install carbon monoxide detectors in all dwelling units intended for human occupancy that have fossil fuel-burning appliances, fireplaces, or attached garages.</p>

Landlord’s Name and Address

Applicable to all California rentals.

Under California Civil Code § 1962, landlords must disclose their name, address, and contact details, along with any authorized property manager’s information. The law also requires landlords to provide information on security deposits and pest control policies.
Landlord Requirements:

  • Include the landlord’s or agent’s full contact details in the lease.
  • Provide information about pest control policies.
  • Disclose security deposit handling, including refund conditions.

Lead-Based Paint Disclosure

Applicable to Alabama rentals built before 1978.

California enforces Title X lead disclosure requirements and has additional state regulations  under the California Lead Poisoning Prevention Act. Landlords must disclose lead hazards and provide extra protections for tenants. 
Landlord Requirements:

  • Include a lead-based paint disclosure form with the lease.
  • Provide the EPA-approved lead hazard pamphlet.
  • Share any lead risk assessment reports if available.
  • Comply with additional California lead safety laws.

Condition of the Premises

Guidelines for Maintaining Rental Property Standards

The lease must document the property’s condition to protect both parties, following California Civil Code § 1950.5. This ensures clarity on pre-existing issues and responsibilities during and after the lease.
Landlord Requirements:

  • Conduct an initial walk-through inspection with the tenant.
  • Provide tenants with a move-in condition checklist.
  • Make necessary repairs to comply with California health and safety codes.

Explore Lease Agreements by State

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