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Having a written record is the best way to assert your rights and protect yourself against landlord retaliation. Tailor these letters to your situation. These letters have been developed by staff with years of experience in tenants' rights, but they DO NOT substitute for legal advice! See our directory for local resources.
Evictions
Eviction Notice Invalid - Not Served With Proper Notice Time
Eviction Notice Invalid - Served by Text, Email or Other Electronic Message
Eviction Notice Invalid - By Phone or Verbal
3-Day Eviction Notice - Dispute
3-Day "Pay or Quit" or "Cure or Quit" Notice - Document Compliance to Stop Eviction
Eviction Reason Invalid - Pending Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) Application
- If you receive an eviction notice for not paying rent and you have a pending ERAP application OR
- If you do not receive an eviction notice, but you want to inform your landlord that you have a pending ERAP application
Eviction Reason Invalid - Retaliatory for COVID-19 Rent Debt
Eviction Reason Invalid - No Just Cause Reason for Eviction
Eviction Reason Invalid - Property Sale
Eviction Reason Invalid - Substantial Repairs
Landlord No Fault Eviction Invalid - Relocation Assistance in 15 Days
Rent Increases
Rent Increase Percent Invalid - Against 5% + CPI Statewide Rent Cap (AB 1482)
- If your rent was increased AND you are protected under AB1482, to request the rent be reduced
Rent Increase Percent Invalid - Against 10% Price Gouging Limit
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If your rent increases above 10% AND your county or California is in a state of emergency.
- Contact your local county office of emergency services to see if there is currently a state of emergency.
- Even a 10% rent increase may be invalid if you are protected under AB 1482, see template letter above
Housing Conditions and Repairs (Habitability)
Leaving Before Lease is Up Due to Unhabitable Conditions
Harassment, Retaliation, and Reasonable Accommodations
Threats Based on Immigration or Citizenship Status
Requesting Reasonable Accommodations for a Disability
Improper Entry and Lock Out
Security Deposits
Notice of Intent to Vacate and Pre-Move-Out Inspection
Contesting Security Deposit Deductions
Demand Return of Security Deposit
Create A Customized Letter Online to Demand Return of Security Deposit! (English only)
Other
Verification of Tenancy For Tenants WITHOUT Written Lease Agreements
- If you would like to apply for rental assistance funds, and need to provide documentation of where you live, but do not have any written agreement with the landlord or property management
Public Letter to Bank to Fight Eviction