AB 2347: Key Eviction Timeline Updates for California Landlords
AB 2347 changes eviction timelines in California starting 2025. Learn key updates landlords need to stay compliant.
As of January 1, 2025, California Assembly Bill 2347 (AB 2347) is bringing significant changes to how evictions are handled across the state. This bill extends the time tenants have to respond to eviction notices and introduces new legal challenges that could impact how quickly landlords can regain possession of their properties.
While this might seem like another hurdle for landlords, understanding these changes can help you navigate the process more efficiently and avoid costly delays. At Good Life Property Management, we know that staying informed is the key to protecting your investment and keeping your rental business running smoothly.
Let’s break down AB 2347 so you know exactly what’s changing, what it means for you, and how to stay compliant.
If you need expert guidance on handling evictions under this new law, schedule a call with us at (858) 207-4595. Our team is here to help you stay compliant and avoid unnecessary setbacks.
Key takeaways
- Tenants have 10 court days (not including holidays and weekends) to reply to eviction notices, twice the former 5-day timeframe.
- Tenants can ask the court to oppose particular portions of an eviction complaint, which may prolong the process.
- Courts must set hearings within 5 to 7 court days after the filing of such motions, expediting some portions of the eviction process.
Table of Contents
Understanding AB 2347 and Why It Matters
AB 2347 aims to give tenants more time and legal options during the eviction process while setting clearer guidelines for landlords. These changes impact every step of an eviction, from serving notices to court proceedings, meaning landlords must adjust their strategies to avoid costly delays.
If you’re already familiar with California’s standard eviction process, AB 2347 adds extra steps that could extend timelines even further. Whether you’re dealing with non-paying tenants or lease violations, being proactive with these new rules will help you maintain control of your rental property.
1. Extended Response Time for Tenants
Before AB 2347, tenants had 5 court days to respond to an eviction notice. Under the new law, this has doubled to 10 court days, excluding weekends and judicial holidays.
- If a tenant is served through mail or alternative service methods, they receive an additional 5 court days on top of that, further extending the timeline.
What This Means for Landlords: You’ll need to factor in these delays when planning for potential evictions. The extended response window gives tenants more time to prepare legal challenges, so ensuring your documentation is solid from the start is critical.
2. Introduction of Motions to Strike
AB 2347 introduces a new legal tool for tenants: motions to strike. This allows them to challenge specific parts of an eviction complaint that they believe are incorrect or legally invalid.
- If a motion to strike is filed, it must be resolved before the eviction case can move forward, potentially delaying the process further.
- If successful, landlords may need to amend their complaint or restart the eviction process.
What This Means for Landlords: You need to make sure your eviction notices and legal filings are error-free. Even small mistakes could give tenants grounds to file a motion to strike, dragging out the process.
3. Expedited Hearings for Demurrers and Motions to Strike
While AB 2347 extends tenant response times, it also ensures that landlord objections to tenant challenges are heard faster.
- Courts must schedule hearings for demurrers (which challenge the legal sufficiency of an eviction) and motions to strike within 5 to 7 court days after they are filed.
What This Means for Landlords: While this change keeps the process moving, it also means you need to be ready to respond quickly if a tenant challenges your eviction filing. Having a property management team or legal expert on hand can help you act fast.
How to Stay Compliant and Avoid Eviction Delays
To successfully navigate AB 2347, landlords should take the following steps:
- Double-check your eviction filings. Any errors could give tenants an opportunity to delay the process.
- Plan for longer timelines. The extended response period means evictions will take longer than before, so factor this into your financial planning.
- Stay ahead of tenant challenges. If a tenant files a motion to strike, be prepared to respond immediately to avoid unnecessary delays.
- Consult an expert. Our guide to AB 2347 breaks down everything landlords need to know about this new law.
We're Here to Help You Navigate AB 2347
Eviction laws in California are constantly evolving, and AB 2347 adds another layer of complexity to the process. If you’re unsure how to handle these changes, we’re here to help.
At Good Life Property Management, we believe that life should be enjoyed, not spent sweating the small stuff. That’s why we set out on a mission to make property management easy. We care about you, your property, and your tenant. And we do it all, so you can Live the Good Life.
Schedule a call to speak with one of our Good Life experts.
FAQs About AB 2347 for Landlords
When does AB 2347 take effect?
AB 2347 is effective January 1, 2025, so landlords should update their eviction procedures before this date to stay compliant.
How does the extended response time impact evictions?
Tenants now have 10 court days instead of 5 to respond to an eviction, which means landlords will face longer wait times before moving forward with a case. If the tenant is served by mail, they get an extra 5 court days on top of that.
What is a motion to strike, and why does it matter?
A motion to strike allows tenants to challenge specific parts of an eviction complaint. If the court grants it, landlords may need to revise their complaint or start the eviction process over.
How do the new court hearing rules benefit landlords?
If a tenant files a motion to strike or a demurrer, the court must now hold a hearing within 5 to 7 court days, preventing these challenges from dragging on indefinitely.
What should landlords do now to prepare for AB 2347?
Landlords should update their eviction procedures, review their legal documentation, and be prepared for longer timelines. It’s also a good idea to consult with a property management expert or attorney to ensure compliance.
Steve Welty
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