Understanding California’s Just Cause Eviction Law (AB 1482)

AB 1482, California’s Tenant Protection Act of 2019, requires landlords to have just cause before evicting tenants who have lived in a covered unit for at least 12 months. Understanding whether your unit is covered — and what just cause requires — is fundamental to knowing your rights.

Is Your Unit Covered?

AB 1482 covers most residential rentals in California built before January 1, 2005, with some exceptions. Exemptions include: single-family homes where the owner has provided required written notice of the exemption, condominiums sold separately from other units, and buildings with two units where the owner lives in one.

Check the exemption status before assuming you’re protected. Some landlords incorrectly tell tenants their unit is exempt when it isn’t — and some tenants incorrectly assume they’re protected when they’re not. Verifying the actual construction date of your building and the ownership structure gives you accurate information about your rights before any dispute arises.

The California Tenant Defense System gives renters the exact tools, templates, and step-by-step guidance to fight illegal evictions, recover wrongfully withheld security deposits, and enforce habitability rights. Request your free evaluation here.