Bill SB 567: Key Changes to No-Fault Evictions

As of April 1, 2024, California’s new legislation, Bill SB 567, has introduced important changes to the rules governing no-fault just cause evictions. This law now affects both landlords and tenants, setting clear guidelines for ending leases and ensuring fair treatment for all parties involved.

Here’s a detailed overview of the key aspects of this new law and what it means for you:

1. Key Updates for No-Fault Just Cause Evictions

Under the new rules, if a landlord terminates a tenancy for a no-fault reason—such as wanting to move into the property—they must comply with specific requirements:

• Mandatory Moving-In Timeline – Landlords must move into the property within 90 days after the tenant vacates. Additionally, they must use the property as their primary residence for at least 12 continuous months. If the landlord fails to meet these conditions:
  • The landlord must offer the rental unit back to the tenant who vacated it, at the same rent and lease terms that were in place before the tenant left.
  • The landlord is also required to reimburse the tenant for reasonable moving expenses that exceed any relocation assistance previously provided.

These provisions are designed to ensure that no-fault evictions are used fairly and not as a loophole to displace tenants unjustly.

2. Relocation Assistance Requirements

When issuing a no-fault eviction notice, landlords must now provide one of the following forms of assistance to the tenant:

• Direct Financial Assistance – Landlords must give the tenant money to help with moving costs.
• Rent Waiver – Alternatively, landlords can waive the rent for the final month of the tenancy. This waiver must be provided in writing before the rent is due.

These measures aim to ease the financial burden on tenants who are displaced due to no-fault evictions, making the transition more manageable.

3. Property Withdrawal and Remodeling Notices

If a landlord decides to withdraw a property from the rental market to remodel or demolish it, they must:

• Provide the tenant with written notice detailing the planned work on the property. This notice must include specific information about the scope of the remodel or demolition.

This requirement ensures that tenants are fully informed about significant changes to their housing situation and have clear information about what to expect.

4. Legal Risks and Penalties for Landlords

• Penalties for Violations – Landlords who attempt to recover possession of a rental unit in violation of the new provisions may be liable for damages up to three times the actual amount of damages, in addition to punitive damages.
• Excess Rent Payments – If a landlord collects rent payments that exceed the maximum allowable increase, they may be liable to pay back up to three times the excess amount, especially if the overcharging was done willfully or fraudulently.
• Enforcement Actions – The Attorney General, city attorney, or county counsel have the authority to seek injunctive relief against landlords who violate these rules. This means that legal action can be taken to enforce compliance and protect tenants’ rights.

What This Means for You

For Tenants

Bill SB 567 provides stronger protections against unfair evictions and ensures that you receive appropriate assistance with moving costs if you are displaced due to a no-fault eviction. This helps to safeguard your rights and reduce the financial impact of relocating.

For Landlords

Understanding and adhering to these new requirements is crucial to avoid potential legal issues and financial penalties. By following the new rules, you can manage your rental properties more effectively and maintain good relationships with your tenants. Ensuring compliance with the law will help you avoid disputes and legal challenges.

Need Legal Advice?

With the new legislation now in effect, it is essential to ensure that you are fully informed and compliant.

If you have any questions about how Bill SB 567 affects you or need guidance on navigating these changes, our experienced team is here to assist.

Contact us today at (619) 546-7880 for a consultation to discuss your specific situation and learn how we can support you in managing these new requirements.

Disclaimer: The information in this post is considered attorney advertising under applicable California Law. The contents of this post is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. The information may be incomplete or out of date. No representations, testimonials, or endorsements on this web site constitute a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of any legal matter.

Written By

Hoffman & Forde, Attorneys at Law, A.P.C.