In California, a landlord who wants to evict you for unpaid rent usually must first serve a written 3-Day Notice to Pay Rent or Quit. This notice gives you a short window to either pay the full rent that is owed or move out. It is not a court order, and your landlord cannot lock you out, shut off utilities, or remove your belongings based on this notice alone.
1. Read the notice carefully and check it for errors
Confirm it states the exact amount of rent owed (not late fees or other charges) and is properly dated and signed. Mistakes in the amount or in how it was served can make a notice defective.
2. Count your 3 days correctly
The 3 days are court days — you do not count the day you received the notice, weekends, or court holidays. Use the deadline calculator to find your exact last day.
3. Decide: pay in full, or prepare to respond
If you pay the full amount demanded within the 3 days, the notice is void and the eviction cannot move forward on that basis. Keep proof of payment.
4. If you can’t pay, get help right away
Contact your local legal aid office or reach out to us. You may have defenses, and acting early gives you the most options.
Frequently asked questions
Does the 3-day period include weekends?
No. Under California law the 3 days are counted as court days, so Saturdays, Sundays, and judicial holidays are excluded.
Can my landlord evict me immediately after 3 days?
No. If you don’t pay or move, the landlord must file an unlawful detainer lawsuit and win a court judgment before the sheriff can carry out an eviction. You will have a chance to respond in court.
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