What must a landlord do before entering a rental property in California?

Providing at least 24 hours written notice to the tenant before entering a rental property is mandated by California law. This requirement is established under California Civil Code, which protects the tenant's right to privacy and ensures that they have adequate notice to prepare for the landlord's visit. The written notice can be delivered in various forms, such as a letter left at the premises or sent via mail, but it must clearly inform the tenant of the intended entry and the purpose.

This practice is important to build trust and respect between tenants and landlords, as it acknowledges the tenant's exclusive right to occupy their rented space. It also prevents any potential conflicts that might arise from unexpected visits. This requirement aims to balance the landlord's need to check on the property or perform necessary repairs with the tenant's rights to privacy and quiet enjoyment of their home.

Other options fail to meet the legal standards set for landlord entry into a rental property in California. For instance, verbal notice without written confirmation does not comply with the law, and scheduling visits solely during banking hours does not consider the tenant's personal schedule. The notion of obtaining consent monthly may imply an ongoing agreement, which is not a standard legal requirement for individual property entry scenarios.