Legal Resources & Compliance
Your complete guide to California rental laws, tenant rights, and mid-term rental compliance
Why Legal Compliance Matters
SubletLA operates in the legal sweet spot of California housing law. Mid-term rentals (30+ days) are fully compliant with state and local regulations, unlike short-term rentals which face strict restrictions. Understanding your rights and responsibilities protects both homeowners and renters.
California Tenant Rights (30+ Day Leases)
1. Habitability Standards
Landlords must maintain safe, livable conditions including: working plumbing/heating, weatherproofing, functional electrical systems, no health hazards (mold, pests), and secure doors/windows.
2. Security Deposit Limits
Maximum 2 months' rent for unfurnished units, 3 months' rent for furnished units. Must be returned within 21 days after move-out, minus documented deductions.
3. Eviction Protections
Landlords cannot evict without just cause (non-payment, lease violations, etc.). 3-day notice required for non-payment, 30-day notice for other violations. AB 1482 provides statewide rent control.
4. Privacy Rights
Landlords must give 24-hour written notice before entering (except emergencies). Entry only allowed during business hours for specific reasons: repairs, inspections, showings.
5. Retaliation Prohibition
Landlords cannot retaliate against tenants for: exercising legal rights, complaining about habitability, organizing tenant unions, or reporting code violations.
6. Discrimination Protections
Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination based on: race, color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation.
Mid-Term vs. Short-Term Rentals: What's Legal?
| Factor | Mid-Term (30+ Days) ✅ | Short-Term (1-29 Days) ⚠️ |
|---|---|---|
| LA City Regulations | No special permits required | Home Sharing Ordinance: Primary residence only, strict caps |
| TOT Tax (14%) | Not applicable | Required on all bookings |
| Tenant Protections | Full California tenant rights | Limited protections |
| Registration Required? | No | Yes (varies by city) |
| Hosting Days Limit | Unlimited | 120 days/year in LA |
| Enforcement Risk | Low | High ($1,000+ fines common) |
📌 Key Takeaway
The LA Home Sharing Ordinance (enforced 2022-2024) caused a 33% decline in short-term rental listings. Mid-term rentals are the legal, compliant alternativethat avoids regulatory scrutiny while providing stable income for homeowners and flexibility for renters.
Tax Obligations
For Property Owners (Lessors)
- ✓Report rental income on federal and CA state tax returns
- ✓Deduct mortgage interest, property tax, maintenance, utilities
- ✓No TOT (Transient Occupancy Tax) for 30+ day leases
- ✓SubletLA provides 1099 forms for commission payments
- ✓Keep records of all expenses for 7 years
- ✓Consider depreciation deductions (consult tax professional)
For Renters
- ℹRent paid is NOT tax-deductible (unless work-related)
- ℹBusiness travelers may deduct temporary housing
- ℹKeep lease agreement and payment records
- ℹNo sales tax on rental payments
- ℹSecurity deposits are not taxable income
- ℹMoving expenses generally not deductible (post-2017 tax law)
Legal Templates & Resources
CA Lease Agreement
State-compliant lease template for 30+ day rentals
Move-In Checklist
Document property condition to protect security deposit
Notice to Enter
24-hour notice template for landlord property access
Rent Receipt
Proof of payment template for record-keeping
Lease Termination
30-day notice template for ending tenancy
Dispute Resolution
Mediation request and process guidelines
Official Government Resources
California Department of Consumer Affairs - Tenant Rights
Official guide to renter rights and responsibilities
LA Housing Department - Home Sharing Ordinance
Current regulations and compliance requirements
California Courts - Unlawful Detainer Guide
Eviction process and tenant protections
IRS - Rental Income and Expenses
Federal tax guidance for rental property owners
California Franchise Tax Board
State tax requirements for rental income
⚠️ Legal Disclaimer
This page provides general information about California rental laws and is not legal advice. Laws change frequently and vary by jurisdiction. For specific legal questions, consult a qualified attorney licensed in California. SubletLA is not responsible for any actions taken based on this information.
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