DOES MY LANDLORD HAVE TO GIVE ME MONEY TO MOVE IF FORCES ME TO MOVE BECAUSE HE’S SELLING THE PROPERTY OR WANTS TO MOVE BACK IN?

Yes. Under California law (Civil Code 1946.2), if a tenant is asked to leave due to no fault of his or her own, the landlord must:

a. Within 15 days after giving notice to have the tenant move, give the tenant one month’s worth of rent to help for relocation; or
b. Give the tenant free rent for the last month of the lease term.

Some cities have additional rules. For example, the Los Angeles Housing Community Investment Department (HCIDLA) requires additional relocation fees if the tenant falls into one of several categories:

a. The tenant is a “Qualified Tenant.” In order to qualify as such, the tenant must meet one of the following criteria:
1. Is 62 years or older; or
2. Disabled; or
3. Has one or more minor children living with them.

b. The tenant is an “Eligible Tenant.” By definition, any person who doesn’t qualify as a “Qualified Tenant” is considered an “Eligible Tenant.”