AB 2347: Key Eviction Rule Changes Every California Landlord Should Know
California’s AB 2347, effective January 1, 2025, introduces critical updates to eviction procedures and tenant protections. These changes provide tenants with additional time to respond to eviction notices while imposing stricter guidelines on landlords managing the eviction process. Understanding and adapting to these updates is essential for housing providers to avoid legal pitfalls and ensure compliance.
If you’re unsure how AB 2347 impacts your rental operations or need help streamlining your processes, give us a call at (310) 800-3064. At Pivot Property Management, we’re here to help you stay compliant and protect your investment.
Key Points to Know
- Tenants now have 10 court days (instead of 5) to respond to an eviction complaint, with an additional 5 days if served by mail.
- If a tenant files a motion or demurrer, landlords need to act quickly—hearings for these motions must occur within 5–7 court days.
- These changes are mandatory, so it’s crucial to update your procedures to stay compliant.
- Delays in evictions can result in lost time and revenue.
Table of Contents
- What Is AB 2347, and Why Is It Important?
- Key Changes Under AB 2347
- How Landlords Can Prepare for AB 2347
- FAQs About AB 2347 for Landlords
What Is AB 2347, and Why Is It Important?
AB 2347 is a new California law designed to enhance tenant protections during eviction processes. By extending response times and revising procedures for tenant motions, the law aims to make the eviction process fairer to tenants, while imposing new compliance burdens on landlords.
For housing providers, the key takeaway is that you will need to adjust your eviction processes to meet the updated requirements. Failing to comply with these changes could result in delays, legal disputes, and possible penalties.
Key Changes Under AB 2347
- Extended Time for Tenant Responses Under AB 2347, tenants now have 10 court days to respond to an eviction complaint, doubling the previous 5-day period.
Additional Time for Mail Service:
If the eviction notice is served via mail or through certain programs like the Secretary of State’s Address Confidentiality Program, tenants are granted an extra 5 court days to respond.
What This Means for Landlords:
Expect longer timelines for processing eviction cases. Make sure your legal team or property manager is updated on these new deadlines to avoid unnecessary delays.
- Revised Procedures for Demurrers and Motions Tenants now have the right to file motions challenging the validity of eviction complaints, such as demurrers or motions to strike.
Hearing Timelines:
These motions must be addressed within 5–7 court days, unless there’s a valid reason for a delay.
What Are Demurrers?
A demurrer is a legal challenge to the basis of the eviction complaint, which could require landlords to modify or refile the case.
Pro Tip:
Work with your legal team to be prepared for potential tenant motions. These shorter timelines require quick action to avoid delays.
How Landlords Can Prepare for AB 2347
To stay compliant with AB 2347 and minimize the risk of mistakes, landlords should take these proactive steps:
- Revise Your Eviction Procedures:
Update your timelines and processes to align with the new response periods and hearing schedules. - Train Your Team:
Ensure that property managers and staff are aware of the new rules and know how to handle tenant motions and responses. - Consult Legal Experts:
Collaborate with an attorney or property management company to help navigate the updated eviction process.
For additional insights, check out our guide on handling evictions in California.
We’re Here to Help You Navigate AB 2347
AB 2347 introduces significant changes that will affect how you manage your rental properties. At Pivot Property Management, we specialize in helping landlords stay compliant with California’s evolving laws while protecting their investments.
Schedule a call with our team today to learn how we can assist you in preparing for AB 2347 and make managing your property stress-free.
FAQs About AB 2347 for Landlords
What is AB 2347, and when does it take effect?
AB 2347 is a California law that updates eviction timelines and procedures to provide greater tenant protections. It takes effect on January 1, 2025.
How long do tenants have to respond to an eviction complaint under AB 2347?
Tenants now have 10 court days (excluding weekends and holidays) to respond to an eviction complaint. If served by mail, they get an additional 5 court days to reply.
What are demurrers and motions, and how do they impact evictions?
Demurrers and motions allow tenants to challenge the legal grounds for an eviction. Under AB 2347, hearings for these motions must occur within 5–7 court days unless there is good cause for a delay.
How should landlords prepare for AB 2347?
Landlords should update their eviction processes, train their staff on the new rules, and collaborate with legal experts to ensure compliance.
What happens if landlords don’t comply with AB 2347?
Failure to comply with AB 2347 could lead to delayed evictions, legal challenges, and penalties. It’s essential to adhere to the new timelines and document all procedures properly.
