Free California 3 Day Notice to Pay Rent or Quit PDF Template

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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

The California 3-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Quit Form should be filled out with accurate tenant information and specific details about the rent owed. The notice should be served to the tenant in person or by registered mail to ensure proof of receipt.

When to Use

This form should be used when a tenant has failed to pay rent on time, and the landlord wishes to request the rent owed or terminate the rental agreement officially. It’s an essential step in eviction if the tenant defaults on their rent.

California Laws

  • Cal. Code of Civ. Proc. § 1161(2))
  • Cal. Code of Civ. Proc. § 1162(a)

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if a tenant does not respond to a 3-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Quit?

Suppose a tenant fails to respond to the notice by paying the overdue rent or vacating the property within three days. In that case, the landlord can initiate legal proceedings to evict the tenant and reclaim possession of the property.

How should a landlord serve the 3-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Quit to a tenant?

The notice should be served to the tenant either in person or via registered or certified mail to ensure proof of receipt. The method of serving the notice may vary based on local regulations, so it’s recommended to consult with a legal professional.

What information should a landlord include in the 3-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Quit Form?

The landlord should include the total amount of rent due, the property’s address, the tenant’s name, and how and when the tenant can pay the rent arrears.

What are a tenant's rights when served with a California 3-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Quit Form?

Tenants can either pay the overdue rent within three days to continue their tenancy or vacate the property. They may seek legal counsel if they believe the notice was unjustly served.