So You Want Your Renters to Fly the Coop (Without Feathers Ruffled)? A Guide to the 60-Day Notice in California
Let's face it, breaking up is hard to do, even when it's with a tenant. You've shared the joy (and occasional mystery) of overflowing trash cans, endured questionable wall art choices, and maybe even learned a new recipe thanks to some late-night kitchen salsa-making adventures. But now, it's time to move on. Maybe you're planning a victory lap and reclaiming your bathroom throne. Or perhaps you've finally saved enough to turn that spare room into your very own indoor putting green (complete with questionable lighting and questionable putting skills). Whatever the reason, it's time to politely (but firmly) show your tenants the door.
The Dreaded 60-Day Notice: Not as Scary as it Sounds (Unless You're a Pigeon)
California law requires landlords to give tenants a heads-up of 60 days before they gotta bounce. This 60-day notice is like the farewell tour of tenancy, giving everyone ample time to pack their disco balls (or whatever it is they collect) and find a new place to call home.
But before you start practicing your eviction sad face (let's be honest, it's not your best look), there are a few things to keep in mind.
Here's Why You Can't Just Yell "Surprise! You're Moving!" Out the Window (Though It Might Be Tempting)
There are two main reasons you can serve a 60-day notice:
- No Fault Eviction: This is basically saying, "Hey, it's not you, it's me (and my desire for a koi pond in the living room)." You don't need a specific reason, but you must offer relocation assistance (which is basically a fancy way of saying "here's some extra cash to help you find a new place").
- Just Cause Eviction: This is when your tenants are rocking the boat a little too hard. Maybe they've turned your basement into a secret fight club (complete with questionable hygiene standards) or decided interpretive dance parties are the new way to celebrate laundry day. Whatever the reason, if they've violated the lease agreement, you can evict them with a 3-day notice (but that's a story for another day).
Crafting the Perfect 60-Day Notice: It's Not Brain Surgery (But Maybe Consult a Lawyer if You Actually Need Brain Surgery)
The good news is, you don't need a law degree to write a 60-day notice. But there are some key things to include:
- The Fancy Stuff: Your name, the tenant's name, and the address of the property.
- The Big Announcement: Clearly state that you're terminating the tenancy.
- The Clock is Ticking: Mention the 60-day window and the specific date the tenancy ends.
- The Reason (if Applicable): If it's a no-fault eviction, you can simply state your intent to move in or take the property off the rental market.
- The Money Matters (if Applicable): If you're required to offer relocation assistance, mention the amount.
- Keep it Civil: A professional and courteous tone goes a long way.
Extra Tips for a Smooth Breakup:
- Proof is Power: Get a copy of the notice signed by the tenant to prove they received it.
- Delivery Matters: There are specific ways to deliver the notice, so check with your local tenant laws.
- Be Open to Communication: Sometimes, tenants might be willing to work something out, so keep the lines of communication open.
By following these tips, you can write a 60-day notice that's clear, concise, and (dare we say) even friendly. Remember, while you might be ready to move on, a little empathy goes a long way. After all, you never know, you might just run into your old tenants at the local koi pond store (because apparently, those are a thing).
