California landlord repair timeline
How long does a landlord in California have to repair?
The clock most states set starts at the tenant’s written notice. Here is what the statute says, with the official source. It is general information, not legal advice.
- What it sets
- Repair and deduct up to one month’s rent, twice in 12 months, after a reasonable time, presumed to be 30 days
- Statute
- Civil Code 1941.1 and 1942
- Official source
- California Civil Code section 1942
Not an emergency service. For a fire, a gas leak or anyone in danger, call 911 or the gas utility.
What California law says, line by line
Each line restates the text it cites. Check the current version before you rely on it.
The clock starts with written or oral notice to the landlord or their agent of conditions that make the home untenantable.
Civil Code 1942(a)If the landlord doesn’t repair within a reasonable time, the tenant may repair and deduct up to one month’s rent, or move out and stop owing rent.
Civil Code 1942(a)Repair and deduct can be used no more than twice in any 12-month period.
Civil Code 1942(a)Acting after the 30th day following notice is presumed reasonable, and a shorter wait can apply when the circumstances require it.
Civil Code 1942(b)The remedy isn’t available when the tenant’s own breach of their duties caused the condition.
Civil Code 1942(c)
Checked October 21, 2026
Turn the statute into your own response times
City rules and your leases can be stricter than the state. Write your times as the strictest of the three.
- Count from when the tenant told you, because many deadlines start at notice
- Put heat, water, power and anything dangerous at the top, day or night
- Ask for notice in writing, and reply in writing, so the record exists if anyone asks
- Record every step with a time: the first reply, the booking, the visit and the confirmation
A question managers ask about California
Section 1942 accepts written or oral notice to the landlord or their agent. A written record still matters, because the 30-day presumption counts from the notice.
Managing in another state? Pick it hereThe same leak can have a different clock across a state line.
The clock starts at the tenant’s notice Ours answers at any hour