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Landlord Retaliation: California Tenant Rights
You asked for repairs, called the city or reported bed bugs, and then came the eviction notice or rent increase.
California prohibits landlord retaliation. Under Civil Code § 1942.5, if a tenant who is current on rent complains about conditions in good faith, reports a suspected bed bug infestation, or files a complaint with a code-enforcement agency, the landlord may not evict, raise the rent or reduce services within 180 days because of it. A landlord who retaliates is liable for actual damages and, if the landlord acted with fraud, oppression or malice, $100 to $2,000 for each retaliatory act. The court awards reasonable attorney's fees to the prevailing party if either side requests them at the start of the case.
Common forms of retaliation
- Eviction notices after repair requests
- Rent increases or new fees
- Cutting off services, parking or laundry
- Harassment, threats and illegal entry
If you received an eviction notice
Eviction (unlawful detainer) cases move fast, and the deadline to respond is short. Contact a lawyer immediately. Retaliation can be a defense to the eviction and a separate claim for damages.
Last reviewed: November 2026 · Ironcrest Law Firm LLP. This page is general information about California law, not legal advice for your situation.
Frequently asked questions
What if the landlord waits more than 180 days?
The 180-day period is a key protection, but retaliation can still be proven after it. The facts and timeline matter.
Do I have to be current on rent?
The 180-day protection in Civil Code § 1942.5(a) applies to tenants who are not in default on rent.
Living with unsafe conditions, or hurt because someone was careless?
Tell us what happened. Consultations are free, and you pay nothing unless we recover for you.