In California, it typically takes around two months to evict a tenant. However, the process can vary depending on the circumstances of the case. If you need to evict a tenant, it’s important to understand what steps are involved and how long each step will take. This article will provide an overview of the eviction process in California and outline some key factors that can affect the timeline.
The eviction process in California can be lengthy and complex. However, it is important to follow the proper procedures to ensure that the process goes smoothly.
Table of Contents
• California Eviction Law
• How Much Does It Cost To Evict Someone In California
• Step by Step Eviction Process in California
• How Long Is An Eviction Process In California
• Can Landlord Force Tenant To Leave
• What Is An Unlawful Detainer In California
• I Want To Sell My Rental Property
California Eviction Law
In California, the eviction process is governed by state law. The law requires that landlords follow certain procedures in order to evict a tenant. These procedures include giving the tenant notice, filing a lawsuit, and obtaining a court order.
California eviction law also requires that landlords give tenants a certain amount of time to cure the problem that led to the eviction.
For example, if the tenant is being evicted for non-payment of rent, the landlord must give the tenant at least three days to pay the rent before starting the eviction process.
How Much Does It Cost To Evict Someone In California?

The cost of evicting a tenant in California can vary depending on the circumstances of the case. However, it typically costs around $500 to file an eviction lawsuit. The landlord may also be responsible for court fees and served process fees.
The fees associated with evicting a tenant can add up quickly. In some cases, the landlord may be able to recoup some of these costs from the tenant if the eviction is successful.
Step by Step Eviction Process in California
The eviction process in California generally follows these steps:
1. The landlord serves the tenant with a notice to quit, which gives the tenant a specific amount of time to move out (usually 3-30 days, depending on the reason for eviction).
2. If the tenant does not move out by the deadline specified in the notice to quit, the landlord can file an eviction lawsuit with the court.
3. The court will set a hearing date, and both parties will have an opportunity to present their case.
4. If the judge rules in favor of the landlord, a writ of possession will be issued. This writ gives the sheriff’s office permission to remove the tenant from the property.
5. The sheriff’s office will serve the tenant with a notice to vacate, which gives the tenant a specific amount of time to move out (usually 5-7 days).
6. If the tenant does not move out by the deadline specified in the notice to vacate, the sheriff’s office will physically remove the tenant from the property and change the locks.
How Long Is An Eviction Process In California
The length of the eviction process in California can vary depending on the circumstances of the case. However, it typically takes around two months from start to finish.
Here are a few key factors that can affect the timeline.
1. The type of notice served: In California, there are different types of notices that can be served depending on the reason for eviction. The type of notice served will determine how much time the tenant has to move out.
3-day Eviction Notice California
If the tenant has not paid rent, the landlord must give a 3-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Quit. If the tenant is using the property for illegal purposes, the landlord can give a 3-Day Notice to Quit without stating a specific reason.
30-day Eviction Notice California
If the landlord wants to evict the tenant for any other reason, such as damaging the property or having too many people living in the unit, the landlord must give a 30-Day Notice to Quit.
60-day eviction Notice California
In some cases, the landlord may be required to give a 60-Day Notice to Quit. This is typically the case when the tenant has been living in the rental unit for more than one year and is being evicted for reasons other than nonpayment of rent.
2. The court’s schedule: Once the eviction lawsuit is filed, the court will set a hearing date. The hearing date will be determined by the court’s schedule, which can vary depending on the county and whether there are any holidays or weekends.
3. Whether the tenant appeals: If the tenant loses the eviction case, they have the right to appeal. An appeal can add several weeks or even months to the eviction process.
4. Whether the tenant delays the process: There are a number of ways that tenants can delay the eviction process, such as by filing a motion to continue the hearing date or requesting a jury trial.
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Can Landlord Force Tenant to Leave?
In California, landlords cannot force tenants to move out without going through the proper legal channels. If the landlord tries to evict the tenant without following the proper procedure, they may be liable for damages.
Forcible eviction is when the landlord physically removes the tenant from the property or changes the locks without a court order. This is a crime in California, and the landlord can be fined up to $200 for each day that they keep the tenant from having access to the property.
Illegal eviction is when the landlord tries to evict the tenant by using threats or force, or by shutting off utilities such as electricity or water. This is also a crime in California, and the landlord can be fined up to $1,000 for each occurrence.
What Is An Unlawful Detainer In California?
If the tenant does not leave after receiving notice, the landlord can file a lawsuit known as an unlawful detainer action. The landlord must file this lawsuit in the superior court.
The summons and complaint will be served on the tenant by a sheriff or process server. The tenant will then have 5 days to file a written response with the court.
If the tenant does not respond, the landlord can request a default judgment from the court. This means that the judge will automatically rule in favor of the landlord.

If the tenant does respond, the case will proceed to a trial. The judge will hear evidence from both sides and make a decision. If either party is not satisfied with the judgment, they can appeal. The appeals process can take several months.
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