Updated on August 11, 2023
The California 3-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Quit Form is an essential legal document in California’s rental agreement process. It safeguards landlords against non-paying tenants by setting a strict three-day timeline for tenants to either pay their outstanding rent or vacate the property.
This form serves as a formal declaration, enabling landlords to forfeit the lease or rental agreement if the tenant fails to meet the specified conditions — paying the due rent or leaving the property within the given timeframe. If a tenant does not comply, the landlord can initiate legal proceedings to recover possession of the property and possibly claim additional damages, such as court costs and attorney’s fees.
Overview of the Form
- Tenant Information (Page 1): This section collects the tenant’s name and the address of the rental property.
- Notice Details (Page 1): The tenant is officially informed of their obligation to either pay the outstanding rent or vacate the premises within three days.
- Rental Information (Page 1): This part outlines the rental payment schedule, rate, and total amount due.
- Payment Information (Page 1): This section details how, where, and when the tenant can settle the rent arrears, either in person or by mail.
- Legal Declaration (Page 1): This area formalizes the landlord’s intention to forfeit the lease or rental agreement if the tenant fails to comply with the notice.
- Date and Signatures (Page 1): This part is for the landlord or lessor to date and sign the notice, providing it with legal validity.
How to Use
When to Use
California Laws
- Cal. Code of Civ. Proc. § 1161(2))
- Cal. Code of Civ. Proc. § 1162(a)