Renting in California comes with specific rules to protect both tenants and landlords, and one of the most important regulations involves how much notice a landlord must give before raising the rent.
Many tenants and landlords hear “30 days” or “90 days” notices but often don’t fully understand the difference or when each applies. Understanding these rules can prevent disputes, ensure compliance with state law, and give tenants the time they need to adjust their budget or consider moving.
In this blog, we’ll explain what 30-day and 90-day notices mean, why they exist, the differences between them, and how both tenants and landlords can follow the law correctly.
Why Rent Increase Notices Are Required
California law requires landlords to provide written notice before increasing rent to:
- Give tenants time to plan for the higher rent or find alternative housing if needed.
- Prevent sudden and unfair rent hikes, protecting tenants’ financial stability.
- Ensure compliance with state law and local ordinances, especially in cities with rent control.
These notices are called “rent increase notices”, and the required notice period depends on the amount of the increase.
The landlords also have control over the lease agreement tied to a property and one should know the right to amend a lease, but only under the right conditions and with the right process.
30-Day Notice
A 30-day notice applies when:
- The tenant has lived in the unit for less than one year or
- The rent increase is 10% or less of the current rent within the last 12 months
What this means:
- The landlord must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before the rent increase takes effect.
- This is common for smaller increases or short-term tenants.
- Tenants receive one month to adjust their finances or decide whether to continue renting.
For example: If a tenant pays $4,000 per month and the landlord wants to increase rent by $300 (7.5%), the landlord only needs to give a 30-day written notice because the increase is less than 10%.
90-Day Notice
A 90-day notice applies when:
- The tenant has lived in the unit for one year or more and/or
- The rent increase is more than 10% of the current rent within the last 12 months
What this means:
- The landlord must provide at least 90 days’ written notice before the rent increase takes effect.
- This gives tenants more time to respond to significant rent increases.
- It is designed to prevent large, sudden increases that could create financial hardship.
For example: If a tenant pays $1,000 per month and the landlord wants to raise rent by $125(12.5%), the landlord must provide 90 days’ notice because the increase exceeds 10%.
Key Differences Between 30-Day and 90-Day Notices
| Factor | 30-Day Notice | 90-Day Notice |
| When it applies | Increase ≤ 10% OR tenant < 1 year | Increase > 10% OR tenant ≥ 1 year |
| Notice period | At least 30 days | At least 90 days |
| Purpose | Small increase or short-term tenant | Large increase or long-term tenant |
| Tenant preparation time | Shorter | Longer, to plan finances or relocate |
In short, the size of the rent increase and the tenant’s length of stay determine whether 30 or 90 days’ notice is required.
What Happens If the Notice Is Not Properly Given
If a landlord fails to provide the proper notice:
- The tenant may refuse to pay the increased rent until the notice period is correctly observed.
- Legal disputes may arise, and landlords could face penalties or enforcement actions.
- The landlord may need to resend the notice and delay the rent increase until compliance is achieved.
For tenants, understanding the correct notice period protects them from illegal rent increases.
Tips for Compliance
For Landlords:
- Determine whether the rent increase is above or below 10% of the current rent.
- Check how long the tenant has lived in the unit.
- Provide a written notice specifying the amount, effective date, and applicable laws.
- Review local rent control laws, as some cities may require longer notice periods.
For Tenants:
- Verify the notice period against California state law.
- Review your lease agreement for any clauses about rent increases.
- Communicate with your landlord if the notice is improper or unclear.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between 30-day and 90-day rent increase notices is essential for both tenants and landlords in California. A 30-day notice covers smaller increases or shorter-tenancy situations, while a 90-day notice protects tenants from larger increases or long-term tenancy changes.
By knowing the rules, tenants can protect their budgets and make informed decisions, while landlords can maintain compliance, avoid legal disputes, and build trust with their tenants. In an increasingly expensive rental market, transparency and proper notice aren’t just legal obligations—they’re a foundation for positive landlord-tenant relationships.
