Yes, a landlord can terminate a lease under AB 1481, but there are specific conditions that must be met in order to do so. AB 1481, also known as the Tenant Protection Act of 2019, provides additional protections for tenants in California facing eviction.
AB 1481 limits a landlord’s ability to terminate a lease by requiring a just cause reason for eviction. Just cause reasons include failure to pay rent, violation of the lease agreement, illegal activities on the property, and other specified reasons outlined in the law.
FAQs:
1. What is AB 1481?
AB 1481 is a California state law that provides additional protections for tenants facing eviction by requiring just cause reasons for lease termination.
2. What are some examples of just cause reasons under AB 1481?
Examples of just cause reasons include non-payment of rent, violation of the lease agreement, or engaging in illegal activities on the property.
3. Can a landlord terminate a lease without just cause under AB 1481?
No, under AB 1481, a landlord must have a just cause reason for terminating a lease. Without a valid reason, the landlord cannot evict the tenant.
4. Can a landlord raise the rent during the lease term under AB 1481?
AB 1481 also imposes limits on rent increases during the lease term. Landlords are restricted from raising the rent by more than a certain percentage per year.
5. How does AB 1481 protect tenants from arbitrary evictions?
AB 1481 protects tenants by requiring landlords to have a valid reason, or just cause, for terminating a lease. This helps prevent arbitrary evictions and provides tenants with more stability in their housing.
6. Can a landlord terminate a lease if the tenant reports code violations or other issues?
No, under AB 1481, a landlord cannot retaliate against a tenant for reporting code violations or other issues by terminating their lease without just cause.
7. What steps must a landlord take to terminate a lease under AB 1481?
To terminate a lease under AB 1481, a landlord must provide written notice to the tenant with a valid just cause reason for the termination. The tenant has the right to contest the eviction in court.
8. Can a landlord terminate a lease if the tenant is causing disturbances or violating the lease agreement?
Yes, a landlord can terminate a lease if the tenant is causing disturbances or violating the lease agreement, as these may be considered just cause reasons for eviction under AB 1481.
9. Are there any exceptions to the just cause eviction requirements under AB 1481?
There are limited exceptions to the just cause eviction requirements under AB 1481 for certain types of properties, such as single-family homes or condominiums, under certain circumstances.
10. Can a landlord evict a tenant for unauthorized occupants under AB 1481?
If the lease agreement prohibits unauthorized occupants and the tenant violates this provision, the landlord may have just cause to terminate the lease and initiate eviction proceedings under AB 1481.
11. How does AB 1481 impact tenants’ rights in California?
AB 1481 strengthens tenants’ rights by providing more protections against unjust evictions and arbitrary rent increases, helping to ensure housing stability for renters in California.
12. Can a landlord terminate a lease for reasons not covered by AB 1481?
If a landlord has a valid reason for termination that is not covered by AB 1481, such as the property being sold or demolition of the building, they may be able to terminate the lease following the appropriate legal procedures.