What happens if my landlord leaves out a required disclosure in California?

Missing disclosures may give you the right to break your lease or file a complaint. Always document missing notices and contact the Department of Consumer Affairs for guidance.

Which disclosures are required for all residential leases in California?

Mandatory disclosures often include lead-based paint, mold, bedbugs, flood hazards, and Megan's Law registry notices, with others depending on property circumstances.

Can I request a copy of my lease and all disclosures?

Yes. Landlords must give you a copy of all lease documents and disclosures whenever you request them.

Do I need the lead-based paint disclosure if my building is new?

No. Lead-based paint disclosures are only needed for rentals built before 1978.

California Residential Lease Disclosure Requirements Explained

Q: Where can I find sample lease disclosure forms?

Sample forms are available from the California Department of Consumer Affairs and the EPA's official resources.

Lease Agreements & Renewals California published: June 21, 2025

Renters in California are protected by state laws that require landlords to include specific disclosures in residential leases. These disclosures help you understand your rights, the condition of your rental, and other important risks or requirements. Knowing what must be disclosed ensures you are better equipped to sign a lease with confidence anywhere in California.

Key Disclosures Required in California Residential Leases

California law outlines several mandatory disclosures that must be included in your rental agreement. These notices may prevent misunderstandings with your landlord and protect your health and legal rights.

Lead-Based Paint Disclosure

Who it applies to: Rentals built before 1978.
Purpose: Warns of possible lead hazards which can cause serious health issues, especially in children.
Form: Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (EPA/HUD)
When used: The landlord must give you this form and an EPA pamphlet when you sign or renew your lease for pre-1978 housing. For example, when moving into a 1950s apartment, you should receive this disclosure and have time to review it before signing.

Mold Disclosure

Purpose: Notifies you if the landlord knows about mold in the unit.
Legal basis: Required under California Health & Safety Code Section 26147.

Bedbug Disclosure

Purpose: Educates renters about bedbugs and ways to prevent or report infestations, which helps keep everyone safe and healthy.
Legal basis: Required under California Civil Code Section 1954.603.
Form: Official bedbug information flyer or addendum. Landlords must include this in the lease.

Pest Control Disclosure

When used: If your landlord has scheduled regular pest control, you must receive a notice with the following information:

Pest(s) being controlled
Pesticide to be used (with name and active ingredient)
Precautions for tenants and pets

Legal basis: California Civil Code Section 1940.8

Methamphetamine Contamination Disclosure

If the landlord knows the rental has been contaminated by methamphetamine, they must give tenants a written notice and copy of any related health department order (California Health & Safety Code Section 25400.45).

Megan's Law Sex Offender Database Notice

Every California lease must include a notice about the availability of the California sex offender registry, as specified at California Civil Code Section 2079.10a.

Flood Zone Disclosure

Form: Flood hazard area disclosure in writing if the landlord knows the rental is in a special flood hazard zone. More details found at California Government Code Section 8589.45.

Demolition Permit Disclosure

If a landlord has applied for a demolition permit, you must receive written disclosure before signing the lease (California Civil Code Section 1940.6).

Other Common Disclosures

Utilities sharing or allocation: If utilities are shared between units or charged individually via a ratio utility billing system, the method must be disclosed.
Move-in/Move-out Inspection Statement: Advises you of the right to a pre-move-out inspection. This form is typically provided by your landlord, but sample language is found in the California Department of Consumer Affairs: Guide to Residential Tenants' and Landlords' Rights and Responsibilities.

Tip: Always read every disclosure in your lease before signing. If you’re missing a required notice, ask your landlord about it – this can protect your rights later.

What Happens if Disclosures Are Missing?

If a landlord fails to provide required disclosures, you may have grounds to break the lease early, file a complaint, or even pursue damages in some instances. Carefully document what you receive and contact local agencies if forms or notices are missing.

Official Forms Used in California Residential Leases

Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form (EPA/HUD) (link to official form): Used before signing/renewing leases for homes built before 1978. For example, your landlord must give you this disclosure if you lease a 1965 apartment.
Bed Bug Disclosure Addendum: Sample available through the California Department of Consumer Affairs guide. Provided by the landlord at the start of the tenancy.
Mold Disclosure Statement: Typically included in the signed lease as required under state law.

Which Tribunal Handles Renters’ Rights in California?

Renters and landlords can bring disputes to local courts or, for some issues, local rent boards. The main agency overseeing landlord-tenant laws is the California Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) – Landlord/Tenant Program.

The California Courts Self-Help: Housing site is another important government resource for renters with questions or problems.

FAQ: California Lease Disclosure Requirements

What happens if my landlord leaves out a required disclosure in California?
Missing disclosures can give renters the right to break a lease, withhold rent (in some health hazard cases), or seek help from a government agency. You should document the missing information and reach out to your local Department of Consumer Affairs or a local rent board.
Which disclosures are required for all residential leases in California?
Common required disclosures include lead-based paint (for pre-1978 rentals), mold, bedbugs, flood hazards, Megan's Law notice, and utilities sharing. Additional disclosures may apply depending on property history and location.
Can I request a copy of my lease and all disclosures?
Yes. By law, landlords must provide renters copies of all signed documents, including every required disclosure, upon request.
Do I need the lead-based paint disclosure if my building is new?
No. This form is only necessary for properties built before 1978, due to the federal ban on residential lead-based paint in 1978.
Where can I find sample lease disclosure forms?
Sample forms and official guides are provided by the California Department of Consumer Affairs and the EPA Lead Disclosure page.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways on Lease Disclosures

California law protects renters by requiring clear disclosures in every residential lease, ensuring transparency.
Always review each disclosure before signing, especially those about health risks like mold, lead, or infestation.
For missing or unclear disclosures, consult the Department of Consumer Affairs or your local rent board for assistance.

With the right information, you can safeguard your rental experience and make informed housing decisions in California.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

California Department of Consumer Affairs – Tenants: Official state guide to your rights, downloadable forms, and complaint options.
California Courts Self-Help: Housing: Legal information and steps for renters facing disputes, eviction, or court.
EPA Lead Disclosure for Landlords and Tenants: Required federal disclosures for lead-based paint risks.
For local agencies, search for your city or county's “rent board” or “housing department” online for regional support.