Duringer-Legal Corner | January 2, 2008

Written by AACSC | 01 January 2008

A: Yes. Although you are the owner of the house, the law only permits access by a landlord in specific situations. Under California Civil Code section 1954, a landlord is given specific criteria for entry into rental property. A landlord may enter in an emergency, to make necessary or agreed upon repairs, decorations, alterations or improvements, to supply necessary services, to exhibit the property to prospective tenants or lenders, when a tenant abandons or surrenders the property, to inspect and test the smoke detectors, or under a court order. Unless your need for entry falls into one of these categories, or unless your tenant gives you permission, your entry is not proper.