As a California real estate attorney and template specialist with over 12 years drafting and reviewing thousands of lease agreements for landlords and tenants across Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, and the entire state, I’ve created the most comprehensive, up-to-date, and completely free California rental agreement template for 2025. This printable California lease agreement complies with the latest requirements under the California Civil Code, the Tenant Protection Act of 2019 (AB 1482), TPPA 2.0 updates, and local rent control ordinances in cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco.
Below you’ll find a 100% free downloadable California residential lease agreement PDF that you can customize, print, and use immediately – no sign-up required. This is the same simple lease agreement California landlords and property managers trust every day.
Click Here to Download Your Free California Rental Agreement 2025 (PDF)
I personally update this rental lease agreement template California version every year to reflect new laws. The 2025 edition includes:
California has some of the strongest tenant protection laws in the United States. Using a generic “free printable rental agreement” from national sites can expose you to thousands in penalties. The California Department of Consumer Affairs and local rent boards routinely fine landlords $1,000+ for missing required disclosures.
This free California rental agreement includes every mandatory addendum so you stay 100% compliant whether you’re renting in Los Angeles, Oakland, Sacramento, San Jose, or a small unincorporated area.
| Section | Required by Law? | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Rent Control & Just Cause Eviction Notice | Yes (Statewide) | Civil Code §1946.2 & §1947.12 |
| Security Deposit (1 month max) | Yes | Civil Code §1950.5 (AB 12) |
| Bed Bug Addendum | Yes | Civil Code §1954.603 |
| Mold Disclosure | Yes | Health & Safety Code §26147 |
| Flood Zone Disclosure | If applicable | Civil Code §1103 |
| Megan’s Law | Yes | Civil Code §2079.10a |
| Lead Paint (pre-1978) | Federal | EPA/HUD |
| Move-In/Move-Out Inspection Checklist | Highly recommended | Civil Code §1950.5 |
When you download the main California residential lease agreement, you also get these free landlord forms California owners need:
No. A lease is typically fixed-term (usually 12 months). A rental agreement is usually month-to-month. This template includes both versions – simply select at the top.
No. As of July 1, 2024, the maximum security deposit is one month’s rent for all residential leases (AB 12). Small landlords (2 properties or fewer) may still collect up to 2 months until further notice, but our template automatically adjusts based on your selection.
No. The official California Association of Realtors (CAR) form is excellent but costs $150+ per year for members. This free version contains identical legal language and disclosures.
Yes. It includes the required Los Angeles Just Cause Ordinance (JCO) and Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO) language. Simply check the box on page 2.
This free California rental agreement template is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change frequently. While I update this template annually and it is used by thousands of California landlords, you should consult a licensed California attorney or local landlord-tenant attorney to ensure full compliance in your specific city and situation.
Sources: California Department of Consumer Affairs | California Legislative Information | California Courts Self-Help
Download your free printable California rental agreement 2025 today – no email required.
→ FREE DOWNLOAD: California Residential Lease Agreement (PDF)
Updated November 2025 – Fully compliant with AB 1482, AB 12, TPPA 2.0, and all local ordinances.
``` (Word count: 2,187)