Civ. Code § 827 · Month-to-month tenancies
California rent increase notice
Fill in the details and this form checks that you're giving enough notice: 30 days for an increase of 10% or less over 12 months, 90 days for more, plus 5 days if you mail it. It produces a notice with a proof of service you can print.
Last reviewed October 17, 2026
Your notice
On a phone: tap Print, then choose Save as PDF or Save to Files from the share options.
California rent increase notice requirements
- In writing. A text message or phone call isn't enough. § 827(b)
- 30 days for an increase that, alone or with other increases in the past 12 months, is 10% or less of the lowest rent charged in that period. § 827(b)
- 90 days for more than 10%. For units covered by AB 1482, an increase over 10% isn't allowed at all. § 827(b)
- Delivery. Hand it to the tenant, or mail it. Mailing within California adds 5 calendar days to the notice period. Code Civ. Proc. § 1013
- Longer notice controls. If your lease, a local ordinance, or a regulatory agreement requires more notice, follow it. § 827(b)
Common questions
Is there an official California rent increase notice form?
No. California doesn't publish a mandatory statewide form. The notice must be in writing, state the new rent and when it starts, and be delivered with enough notice. Some cities require their own forms or extra language.
Can I email a rent increase notice in California?
Civil Code Section 827 refers to personal delivery or mail. Email may not count unless the tenant has agreed in writing to receive notices that way, so hand delivery or mail is the safer choice.
Does the notice period start the day I mail it?
When you mail the notice within California, add 5 calendar days to the required notice period. For a 30-day notice, that means the new rent can start no earlier than 35 days after mailing.
Can I raise rent during a one-year lease?
Generally not, unless the lease itself allows it. For a fixed-term lease, rent increases usually take effect when the lease renews or converts to month-to-month.